Network node, method and computer program

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a network node, a method and a computer program. A network node for supporting providing radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network. The network node is configured to send a request for a communication address of another network node to a central network node in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by the other network node from a user equipment. The network node is further configured to, in response to receiving a communication address of the other network node from the central network node, store the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node. The network node is further configured to update the data repository accordingly in response to receiving the update regarding the cell status.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example embodiments relate to a radio communication network and a manner of exchanging communication addresses of network nodes. Background Art

[0002] The configuration of active cells in a cellular system within a given geographic area may vary. For example, events such as holidays may result in a large influx of user devices into a particular area. New cells may be created to manage the additional user load. These additional cells may be controlled by one or more gNodeBs (gNBs) that are separate from the gNBs controlling the existing active cells. The number of active cells may also vary for energy conservation purposes. For example, cells may be turned off to conserve power when user load is low, and turned on when user load is high.

[0003] From the perspective of the gNB, this may result in a change in the number and identities of cells adjacent to the cell controlled by the gNB. The gNB may not have a communication link established with the new gNB controlling the newly added cell. A method for establishing communication links between gNBs is required. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The scope of protection sought by each exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is set out in the independent claims. Exemplary embodiments and features described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims (if any) should be interpreted as examples that help understand each embodiment of the present invention.

[0005] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network is provided, the network node comprising: a data repository; at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when the at least one processor executes these instructions, at least causes the device to perform: in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by another network node from a user equipment, sending a request for the communication address of the other network node to a central network node; in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, storing the communication address of the other network node in the data repository; and in response to receiving a status update of the cell, updating the data repository accordingly.

[0006] In some example embodiments, the updating of the status includes an indication of a change in status of the cell, for example, when the cell is activated and / or deactivated. When a cell is active, the cell provides radio coverage in a given geographic area for a communications network. When a cell is inactive, the cell no longer provides radio coverage within the communications network.

[0007] In some example embodiments, the network node comprises a gNB. In some example embodiments, the cell is controlled by a central unit (CU) or a distributed unit (DU) of the gNB, including being activated and deactivated.

[0008] In some example embodiments, the update of the status of the cell includes an indication that the cell is no longer active.

[0009] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving the indication that the cell is no longer active, determining whether the other network node controls any other active cell for which the network node is configured to receive updates, and if not, updating the data repository comprises removing the communication address of the other network node from the data repository.

[0010] In some example embodiments, when the update of the status of the cell includes an indication that the cell has been activated, and in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node, updating the data repository includes storing the communication address of the other network node in the data repository.

[0011] In some example embodiments, the update of the status of the cell is received from at least one of: the other network node and the central network node.

[0012] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform, in response to said receiving the communication address of said another network node from said central network node, sending a request to said another network node to receive said status update of said cell.

[0013] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving the indication of the cell controlled by the other network node from the user equipment, subscribing to receive updates of the status of the cell by sending a request to the central network node for receiving updates of the status of the cell.

[0014] In some example embodiments, the request to receive an update and the request for the communication address are included in the same transmission.

[0015] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to cause a confirmation of the subscription to be received from the central network node.

[0016] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform: sending a registration message to the central network node, the message comprising at least one of: a communication address of the network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node.

[0017] In some example embodiments, the central network node comprises network storage functionality.

[0018] In some example embodiments, the indication of the cell controlled by the other network node comprises a cell global identifier.

[0019] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: means for sending a request for a communication address of another network node to a central network node in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by the other network node from a user equipment; means for storing the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node; and means for updating the data repository accordingly in response to receiving an update on the status of the cell.

[0020] This component may perform optional features associated with the above-described apparatus.

[0021] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: circuitry configured to, in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by another network node from a user equipment, send a request for a communication address of the other network node to a central network node; circuitry configured to, in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, store the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node; and circuitry configured to, in response to receiving an update on a status of the cell, update the data repository accordingly.

[0022] The circuitry may be configured to perform optional features described above in relation to the apparatus.

[0023] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: in response to a change in a state of a cell in the one or more cells, registering the change in state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0024] In some example embodiments, the method is further caused to perform: activating the cell; and when the cell is activated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been activated.

[0025] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to: deactivate the cell; and when the cell is deactivated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been deactivated.

[0026] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving a request for a status update of the cell from another network node, sending the indication of the change to the other network node.

[0027] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform: sending a registration message to the central network node, the message comprising at least one of: a communication address of the network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node.

[0028] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform, in response to the change in the state of the cell of the one or more cells, registering the change in state by sending a cell global identifier of the cell together with the indication of the change to a central network node.

[0029] In some example embodiments, the central network node comprises network storage functionality.

[0030] In some example embodiments, the network node comprises a gNB.

[0031] In some example embodiments, the network node comprises the features set out above in relation to the network node.In this way, a network node may be provided that is configured to have features of both of the above example embodiments.

[0032] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: means for, in response to a change in the state of a cell in the one or more cells, registering the change in the state of the cell by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0033] This component may perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0034] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communications network, the network node comprising: circuitry configured to, in response to a change in the state of a cell in the one or more cells, perform registration of the change in state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0035] The circuitry may be configured to perform the optional features set out in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0036] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a central network node of a communications network, the central network node being configured to maintain a register of communications addresses of network nodes within the communications network and a list of cells controlled by the network nodes within the communications network, the central network node comprising: a data repository comprising the register; at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: in response to receiving from a network node a registration message comprising at least one of: the communications address of the corresponding network node and the list of cells controlled by the network node, updating the register accordingly; and in response to receiving from a first network node a request for the communications address of a second network node controlling a cell of the communications network identified by the first network node, sending to the first network node an indication of the communications address of the second network node.

[0037] In some example embodiments, the network node comprises at least one of: the first network node and the second network node.

[0038] In some example embodiments, the central network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving an indication of a change in status of the cell from the second network node, updating the register accordingly.

[0039] In some example embodiments, the change comprises activation of the cell, and the updating the register comprises marking the cell as active.

[0040] In some example embodiments, the change comprises deactivation of the cell, and the updating the register comprises marking the cell as inactive.

[0041] In some example embodiments, the central network node is further caused to: in response to said receipt of said request for said communications address, mark the first network node as having requested the communications address of the second network node in the registrar, and relay to the first network node any indication of the change in status of the cell received from the second network node.

[0042] In some example embodiments, the central network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving a registration update message from the second network node including an indication that the cell has been deactivated, sending an indication to the first network node that the cell is no longer active.

[0043] In some example embodiments, the central network node is further caused to: in response to receiving a registration update message from the second network node including an indication that the cell has been activated, send an indication that the cell is active and a communication address of the second network node to the first network node.

[0044] In some example embodiments, the central network node is further caused to perform, in response to receiving a request from a network node to receive the status update of the cell, sending an acknowledgement of the request to receive the update to the network node.

[0045] In some example embodiments, the central network node comprises network storage functionality.

[0046] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a central network node of a communications network, the central network node being configured to maintain a register of communications addresses of network nodes within the communications network and a list of cells controlled by the network nodes within the communications network, the central network node comprising: means for updating the register stored in a data repository of the network node in response to receiving from a network node a registration message comprising at least one of: the communications address of the respective network node and the list of cells controlled by the network node; and means for sending to a first network node an indication of the communications address of a second network node controlling a cell of the communications network identified by the first network node in response to receiving from the first network node a request for the communications address of the second network node.

[0047] This component may perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0048] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a central network node of a communications network, the central network node being configured to maintain a register of communications addresses of network nodes within the communications network and a list of cells controlled by the network nodes within the communications network, the central network node comprising: circuitry configured to, in response to receiving from a network node a registration message comprising at least one of: the communications address of the respective network node and the list of cells controlled by the network node, update the register accordingly; and circuitry configured to, in response to receiving from a first network node a request for the communications address of a second network node controlling a cell of the communications network identified by the first network node, send to the first network node an indication of the communications address of the second network node.

[0049] The circuitry may be configured to perform the optional features set out in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0050] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method performed at a network node, the method comprising: in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by another network node from a user equipment, sending a request for a communication address of the other network node to a central network node; in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, storing the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node; and in response to receiving a status update of the cell, updating the data repository accordingly.

[0051] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to said receiving the communication address of said further network node from said central network node, sending a request to said further network node to receive said status update of said cell.

[0052] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving the indication of the cell controlled by the other network node from the user equipment, subscribing to receive the status updates of the cell by sending a request to the central network node for receiving the status updates of the cell.

[0053] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises causing receipt of a confirmation of the subscription from the central network node.

[0054] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises sending a registration message to the central network node, the registration message comprising at least one of: a communication address of the network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node.

[0055] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, the medium including program instructions stored thereon, for causing an apparatus to at least perform the following: in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by another network node from a user equipment, sending a request for a communication address of the other network node to a central network node; in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, storing the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node; and in response to receiving a status update of the cell, updating the data repository accordingly.

[0056] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0057] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor on a network node, cause the network node to perform at least one of the following: in response to receiving an indication of a cell controlled by another network node from a user equipment, sending a request for a communication address of the other network node to a central network node; in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, storing the communication address of the other network node in a data repository of the network node; and in response to receiving a status update of the cell, updating the data repository accordingly.

[0058] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0059] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method performed at a network node, the method comprising: in response to a change in state of a cell controlled by the network node, registering the change in state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0060] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: activating the cell; and when the cell is activated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been activated.

[0061] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: deactivating the cell; and when the cell is deactivated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been deactivated.

[0062] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving a request for a status update of the cell from another network node, sending the indication of the change to the other network node.

[0063] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises sending a registration message to the central network node, the registration message comprising at least one of: a communication address of the network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node.

[0064] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to the change in the state of the cell of the one or more cells, registering the change in state by sending a cell global identifier of the cell together with the indication of the change to a central network node.

[0065] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: in response to a change in the state of a cell controlled by the network node, registering the change in the state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0066] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0067] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor on a network node, cause the network node to perform at least the following: in response to a change in the state of a cell controlled by the network node, register the change in state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

[0068] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0069] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method performed at a central network node, the method comprising: in response to receiving a registration message from a network node, the registration message comprising at least one of: a communication address of each network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node, updating a register maintained by the central network node of the communication addresses of the network nodes and the list of cells controlled by the network nodes; and in response to receiving a request from a first network node for the communication address of a second network node that controls a cell of the communication network identified by the first network node, sending to the first network node an indication of the communication address of the second network node.

[0070] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving an indication of a change in status of the cell from the second network node, updating the register accordingly.

[0071] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to said receiving of said request for said communications address, marking the first network node in the registrar as having requested the communications address of the second network node, and relaying to the first network node any indication of the change in status of the cell received from the second network node.

[0072] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving a registration update message from the second network node including an indication that the cell has been deactivated, sending an indication to the first network node that the cell is no longer active.

[0073] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving a registration update message from the second network node including an indication that the cell has been activated, sending an indication that the cell is active and a communications address of the second network node to the first network node.

[0074] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to receiving a request to receive the status update of the cell from a network node, sending an acknowledgement of the request to receive the update to the network node.

[0075] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: in response to receiving a registration message from a network node, the registration message including at least one of the following: a communication address of a corresponding network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node, updating a register of communication addresses of network nodes and lists of cells controlled by the network node maintained by the central network node; and in response to receiving a request from a first network node for the communication address of a second network node controlling a cell of the communication network identified by the first network node, sending to the first network node an indication of the communication address of the second network node.

[0076] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0077] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor on a network node, cause the network node to perform at least the following: in response to receiving a registration message from a network node, the registration message comprising at least one of: a communication address of each network node and a list of cells controlled by the network node, updating a register maintained by the central network node of communication addresses of network nodes and lists of cells controlled by the network nodes; and in response to receiving a request from a first network node for the communication address of a second network node that controls a cell of the communication network identified by the first network node, sending to the first network node an indication of the communication address of the second network node.

[0078] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0079] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network node to at least perform: in response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, sending performance measurements of the one or more cells to the central network node.

[0080] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to cause receipt from the central network node of a communication address of another network node controlling a cell neighbouring at least one of the one or more cells.

[0081] In some example embodiments, the network node is further caused to perform: activating a cell of the one or more cells.

[0082] In some example embodiments, the network node comprises a gNB.

[0083] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: a component for sending performance measurements of the one or more cells to a central network node in response to receiving a performance measurement request from the central network node.

[0084] This component may perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0085] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a network node for supporting provision of radio coverage within one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: circuitry configured to, in response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, execute sending performance measurements of the one or more cells to the central network node.

[0086] The circuitry may be configured to perform the optional features set out in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0087] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a central network node of a communication network, the node comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: in response to receiving performance measurements of a cell controlled by a network node within the communication network, determining other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell; and sending a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determining whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and when it is determined that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, sending a communication address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes.

[0088] In some example embodiments, determining other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell means determining which network nodes, if any, control cells in the same geographical area as the cell, as these cells may be of interest for handover purposes.

[0089] In some example embodiments, the central network node comprises a network manager.

[0090] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a central network node of a communications network, comprising: means for determining, in response to receiving performance measurements of the cell controlled by the network node, other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell controlled by the network node in the communications network; means for sending a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; means for determining, in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and means for sending a communications address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes when it is determined that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell.

[0091] This component may perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0092] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, a central network node of a communication network is provided, comprising: a circuit configured to, in response to receiving performance measurements of a cell controlled by a network node within the communication network, determine other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell; a circuit configured to, in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determine whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and a circuit configured to, when determining that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, send a communication address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes.

[0093] The circuitry may be configured to perform the optional features set out in relation to the above-mentioned apparatus.

[0094] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method performed at a network node, the method comprising: in response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, sending performance measurements of one or more cells controlled by the network node to the central network node.

[0095] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises causing receipt from the central network node of a communication address of another network node, the other network node controlling a cell neighbouring at least one of the one or more cells.

[0096] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises activating a cell of the one or more cells.

[0097] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, the medium including program instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus to at least perform the following: in response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, sending performance measurements of one or more cells controlled by the network node to the central network node.

[0098] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features described with respect to the above-mentioned method.

[0099] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor on a network node, cause the network node to at least perform the following: in response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, send performance measurements of one or more cells controlled by the network node to the central network node.

[0100] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features described with respect to the above-mentioned method.

[0101] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method performed at a central network node, the method comprising: in response to receiving performance measurements of a cell controlled by the network node, determining other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell; and sending a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determining whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and when it is determined that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, sending a communication address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes.

[0102] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, the medium including program instructions stored thereon, for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following items: in response to receiving performance measurements of a cell controlled by a network node, determining other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell; and sending a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determining whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and when it is determined that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, sending a communication address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes.

[0103] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features described in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0104] According to various (but not necessarily all) example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a processor on a network node, cause the network node to perform at least the following: in response to receiving performance measurements of a cell controlled by the network node, determine other network nodes that support providing radio coverage in one or more cells within the area of ​​the cell; and send a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determine whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; and when it is determined that at least one of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, send a communication address of the network node to the at least one of the other network nodes.

[0105] The instructions may be used to perform the optional features set forth in relation to the above-mentioned method.

[0106] Further particular and preferred aspects are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Features in the dependent claims may be combined with features in the independent claims as appropriate, and in combinations other than those explicitly set out in the claims.

[0107] Where an apparatus feature is described as being operable to provide a function, it is to be understood that this includes the apparatus feature providing that function, or the apparatus feature being adapted or configured to provide that function. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0108] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0109] Figure 1 The addition of a cell to a cellular radio communications system according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0110] Figure 2 shows a signaling diagram according to an example embodiment;

[0111] Figure 3 shows a signaling diagram according to another example embodiment;

[0112] Figure 4 shows a signaling diagram according to another example embodiment; and

[0113] Figure 5 A system according to an example embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0114] In current and future cellular systems, the configuration of active cells within a given geographic area is not fixed and may change. For example, events such as holidays may result in a large influx of user devices into a particular area, potentially leading to the addition and / or creation of new cells to manage the additional user load. These additional cells may be controlled by one or more new gNBs, distinct from those controlling existing cells. Another scenario in which cells switch between active and inactive states is for energy conservation. For example, machine learning concepts could potentially be leveraged to switch cells on and off to optimize energy consumption.

[0115] From the gNB's perspective, this can result in frequent changes in the number and identities of neighboring cells to the cells controlled by the gNB. That is, the Neighbor Cell Relationship Table (NCRT) for each cell controlled by the gNB may change frequently. Furthermore, because the gNBs involved do not know each other's transport network layer (TNL) addresses, the (backhaul Xn) connection to any new gNB controlling the newly added cells will be unavailable. Consequently, handovers from one cell to another may be subject to significant delays.

[0116] In TS 38.423, "Xn Application Protocol," the "Xn Setup Request" and "Xn Setup Response" messages (Section 8.4.1.2.) enable two gNBs to exchange a complete list of cells they are serving (Served Cell Information NRIE). Furthermore, the "NG-RAN Node Configuration Update" message (Section 8.4.2.2.) allows this information to be updated. However, updating this information presupposes that the gNBs know each other's transport network layer (TNL) addresses, meaning that they have established an Xn connection. Furthermore, this messaging is inefficient because a gNB can control up to 16,384 cells, and sending information about all of these cells may not be relevant or necessary for other gNBs.

[0117] In TS 38.300 "NR and NG-RAN General Description", if the source gNB obtains the New Radio Cell Global Identifier (NR CGI) of a neighboring cell via user measurement, it can contact the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) to obtain the TNL address of the target gNB controlling the neighboring cell. The whole process consists of four steps, with the AMF acting as a relay (Section 15.3.4)

[0118] 1. The source gNB contacts the AMF for the target gNB’s TNL and provides the NR CGI of the neighboring cell (or directly to the target gNB if it can be retrieved from the NR CGI);

[0119] 2. The AMF requests to contact the target gNB using the TNL address;

[0120] 3. The target gNB responds to the AMF with its TNL address; and

[0121] 4. The AMF forwards the TNL address of the target gNB to the source gNB.

[0122] This process is lengthy and may cause delays in any future handovers between the source and target gNBs. Furthermore, the process involves Core Network (CN) functionality, which may not be necessary.

[0123] Regarding cell removal, LTE 1685 "Neighbor Relation Robustness" allows the gNB to automatically remove NCRT entries and corresponding Xn connections that have not undergone handovers based on a configured time interval. This time interval can be set from minutes to hours. For example, if a target gNB has not performed a handover for a predetermined period of time, the target gNB can be removed from the NCRT.

[0124] Figure 1 An example embodiment is illustrated in which cells a to d are added (as shown on the right hand side) to a pre-existing network (as shown on the left hand side).The dotted lines show existing point-to-point (P2P) Xn connections. Figure 1 As shown, gNB 4, which controls cell a, has no Xn connection with gNB 1 and gNB 2. Similarly, gNB 3 has no Xn connection with gNB 1.

[0125] Embodiments disclosed herein allow a given gNB to learn the address of a gNB controlling a new neighboring cell in a timely manner. Thus, a communication link can be established between gNBs. Some example embodiments assume a service-based interface (SBI) connecting gNBs (central units) to each other and to the RAN Network Response Function (NRF). Corresponding services are defined, namely subscription rights and notifications about events / updates, which allow the source gNB controlling a given cell to be directly notified when a neighboring cell controlled by a target gNB becomes active, along with the address of the target gNB, without going through the core network and reducing the number of steps. Similarly, when a neighboring cell is deactivated by the target gNB, the source gNB can be notified directly without having to wait for the currently defined (time) counter to expire in order to remove the cell from the NCRT.

[0126] In this Service Based Architecture (SBA) embodiment, there are no P2P Xn connections between gNBs. Instead, gNBs have predefined communication addresses, such as IP addresses, and are conceptually connected via the same SBI bus. It is understood that careful selection of the gNBs to be notified of certain events is necessary. For example, in Figure 1 There is no need to inform gNB3 that gNB4 is now controlling Figure 1In this example, gNB3 controls cell a, so no handover is required between gNB3 and gNB4 because gNB3 does not control any neighboring cells. In this example, gNB1 and gNB2 only need to be informed that gNB4 is now controlling cell a. Similarly, gNB1 and gNB2 only need to be informed that gNB3 is now controlling cell c. While gNB3 could directly contact gNB2 using the "NG-RAN Node Configuration Update" message to inform it of this, in the known setup, there is no way for it to directly contact gNB1 to provide this information.

[0127] In an example embodiment, during the initial registration step, the gNB reports only its serving cell list to the RAN NRF. This is in contrast to known arrangements where this information can be shared with multiple gNBs during each (Xn) connection establishment. In an example embodiment, any updates to the serving cell list are also reported to the RAN NRF.

[0128] Figure 2 shows an example embodiment and Figure 1 The signaling diagram for this example scenario is shown in step S1. In step S1, gNB3 sends a registration message to the central network node (in this embodiment, the RAN NRF). The registration message includes a list of serving cells associated with gNB3 along with gNB3's communication address (in this embodiment, the IP address). Similarly, in step S2, gNB1 sends a registration message that includes a list of cells controlled by gNB1 and gNB1's IP address.

[0129] In step S3, gNB3 turns on cell c. In other example embodiments, this step includes activating cell c, for example, from a low-power or standby mode that does not provide radio coverage. In step S4, gNB3 sends a Registration Update message to the NRF, including an indication of this change in status for cell c. The Registration Update message also includes the NR CGI for cell c.

[0130] In step S5, the source gNB (gNB1) receives an indication of a cell controlled by another network. In this example embodiment, gNB1 obtains the NR CGI of cell c via over-the-air user measurements. When gNB1 receives the NR CGI of the (neighboring) target cell (cell c) controlled by the target gNB (gNB3) via over-the-air user measurements, in step S6, gNB1 asks the NRF for the communication address of gNB3, which in this case is the IP address. In other example embodiments, the communication address of gNB3 is any network address that enables gNB1 to communicate with gNB3. Furthermore, in step S6, gNB1 subscribes to receive status updates of cell c by sending a request to the NRF for receiving status updates of cell c. Figure 2In the example embodiment, gNB1 requests the NRF for subscription rights to events / updates related to the target cell (cell c) in the same transmission as it requests the IP address of gNB3. It will be appreciated that these requests may be sent in separate transmissions.

[0131] In step S7, the NRF responds to gNB1 by providing the communication address of gNB3 and additionally granting the subscription rights requested by the source gNB (gNB1). By subscribing to the target cell's status updates, gNB1 will be automatically notified whenever the status of cell c changes (e.g., whenever cell c is turned on or off).

[0132] Since the target gNB registers its serving cell list with the NRF, it can easily obtain information about the gNB controlling cell c from the NRF (target cell-target gNB association). Therefore, when the source gNB first discovers the target cell, it can provide the communication address of cell c to gNB1 in two steps, compared to four steps in the existing technology.

[0133] In response to the source gNB obtaining the address of the target gNB, in step S8, gNB1 stores the communication address of gNB3 in a data repository of gNB1. In particular, in this example embodiment, gNB1 caches the IP address of gNB3.

[0134] In response to receiving confirmation from the NRF that the subscription rights or gNB1 is subscribing to updates related to cell c, gNB1 subscribes directly to gNB3 by sending an update request for cell c to gNB3 in step S9. After the source gNB subscribes to the target gNB for the required cell updates, gNB3 will send updates regarding changes in the status of cell c directly to gNB1. For example, as discussed below, gNB3's address may only be sent directly to gNB1 by gNB3 in a single step at a later point in time.

[0135] In step S10, gNB3 deactivates cell c after a period of time, for example, due to reduced user load. It should be understood that gNB3 may be configured to deactivate cell c in other ways such that cell c does not provide radio coverage. For example, cell c may be controlled to enter a low-power mode.

[0136] In step S11, gNB3 sends an indication to the NRF in a Registration Update message to deactivate cell c. In step S12, gNB3 sends an indication to gNB1 to deactivate cell c, as gNB1 subscribes to updates on cell c. Steps S11 and S12 may occur simultaneously or at different times.

[0137] In step S13, in response to receiving the indication that cell c is no longer active, gNB1 removes gNB3's IP address from its data repository to free up memory. In this way, the IP address can be removed from gNB1's data repository without waiting for the expiration of a predetermined time period during which, according to prior art, no handovers can be performed. It will be appreciated that in the example embodiments disclosed herein, if no handover is performed to cell c (or a cell controlled by gNB3), the removal of gNB3's IP address from gNB1's data repository can still be achieved after the expiration of the predetermined time period.

[0138] In some example embodiments, gNB1 may determine whether gNB3 controls any other cells for which it is configured to receive updates. If there are no other cells controlled by gNB3 for which gNB1 is configured to receive updates, gNB3's IP address is deleted. If gNB1 is configured to receive updates for one or more other cells controlled by gNB3, gNB1 may choose not to delete gNB3's IP address.

[0139] In some example embodiments, gNB1 is configured to store an indication of the association between gNB3 and cell c. For example, gNB1 may store the tuple (NR CGI of cell c, IP address of gNB3). In response to receiving an indication that cell c is no longer active, gNB1 may remove the indication of the association between gNB3 and cell c from its data store. In this manner, any indications of associations between gNB3 and other cells are unaffected.

[0140] In step S14, gNB3 turns cell c on again after some time has elapsed. Cell c is now active again, providing radio coverage within the communications network. In step S15, gNB3 sends an indication of the activation of cell c to the NRF in a Registration Update message. In step S16, gNB3 sends an indication of the cell activation to gNB1, as gNB1 subscribes to updates about cell c. This transmission also includes gNB3's IP address, allowing gNB1 to once again store gNB3's IP address in its data repository without contacting the NRF. In this particular example embodiment, gNB1 stores an indication of the association between cell c and gNB3. For example, gNB1 may store the tuple (NR CGI for cell c, IP address of gNB3). This allows gNB1 to know that gNB3 is controlling cell c.

[0141] Figure 3 Another exemplary embodiment is shown Figure 1 In this embodiment, the initial registration steps (steps S101 and S102) and the serving cell update (steps S103 and S104) are related to the signaling diagram of the example scenario shown in FIG. Figure 2Similarly, gNB1 obtains the CGI of cell c from user measurements in S105. Figure 2 Same as the S5 in the .

[0142] In step S106, gNB1 sends a request to the NRF for the communication address of gNB3 controlling cell c, specifically the IP address of gNB3. Figure 2 In contrast, this transmission does not include a subscription request. Instead, the NRF maintains a register for the target cell (cell c), containing a list of gNBs with the IP address of the target gNB (gNB3) that has requested control of cell c. The NRF assumes that those gNBs on the list are interested in receiving updates for cell c. For example, in step S107, the NRF updates the register to mark gNB1 as the IP address of the gNB that has requested control of cell c. Whenever there is an update for the target cell (cell c), the NRF notifies the gNBs on the list in the register of the update, as discussed below.

[0143] In step S108, in response to the request for an IP address from gNB1, the NRF sends gNB3's IP address to gNB1. In response to receiving the IP address, in step S109, gNB1 stores the address in its database, in this case, caches the address.

[0144] In steps S110 and S111, gNB3 switches off cell c after some time has passed and sends an indication of this change to the NRF in a Registration Update message.

[0145] The NRF determines from the registrar that gNB1 should relay any updates regarding cell c from gNB3. Therefore, in step S112, the NRF sends an indication to gNB1 that cell c is no longer active. In response, in step S113, gNB1 removes gNB3's IP address from its data store.

[0146] In some example embodiments, gNB1 may determine whether gNB3 controls any other cells for which it is configured to receive updates. If none of the cells controlled by gNB3 are cells for which gNB1 is configured to receive updates, then gNB3's IP address is deleted. If gNB1 is configured to receive updates for one or more other cells controlled by gNB3, then gNB1 may choose not to delete gNB3's IP address.

[0147] In some example embodiments, gNB1 is configured to store an indication of the association between gNB3 and cell c. For example, gNB1 may store the tuple (NR CGI of cell c, IP address of gNB3). In response to receiving an indication that cell c is no longer active, gNB1 may remove the indication of the association between gNB3 and cell c from its data store. In this manner, any indications of associations between gNB3 and other cells remain unaffected.

[0148] In steps S114 and S115, gNB3 turns on cell c again after some time has passed and sends an indication of this change to the NRF in a Registration Update message.

[0149] In step S116, the NRF determines from the registrar that gNB1 should be relayed any updates from gNB3 regarding cell c. It also looks up the communication address of gNB3, which controls cell c. In step S117, the NRF sends an indication to gNB1 that cell c is now active, along with the communication address of gNB3. In response, gNB1 may again store gNB3's address in its data repository. In this particular example embodiment, gNB1 stores an indication of the association between cell c and gNB3. For example, gNB1 may store the tuple (NR CGI for cell c, IP address of gNB3). This allows gNB1 to know that gNB3 is controlling cell c.

[0150] In cases where centralized handling of gNB addresses is desired, Figure 3 The illustrated example embodiment is advantageous. In this embodiment, obtaining the address of the target gNB requires two steps in all cases, compared to four steps required in the prior art.

[0151] In addition to the above service-based solution, according to another exemplary embodiment, Figure 4 Shown with Figure 1The signaling diagram for the example scenario shown here is related to the example scenario. This embodiment assumes the presence of a central network node (the Network Manager (NM)) that is aware of all measurements in the system. According to 3GPP TS 32.432, the NM provides a set of end-user functions responsible for managing the network and has direct access to network elements (e.g., gNBs). Performance measurements are transmitted to the NM as part of performance management profiles and some other reports. Performance measurements can relate to all cells controlled by the network node, a subset of cells controlled by the network node, or a specific cell controlled by the network node (e.g., cell c). The NM thus has all the information needed to estimate the geographical coverage area of ​​each gNB, even at the radio quality level. Upon each activation of a new cell within a given geographical area, the NM runs an algorithm to check for any new overlaps in the geographical area between gNBs that currently have no established (Xn / IP) connections. Compared to the example embodiment described above, the establishment of new (Xn / IP) connectivity between two gNBs can be performed earlier than the first occurrence of a connection because it does not rely on the new cell being visible in over-the-air user measurements, i.e., it does not rely on the user reporting the NR CGI of the target cell. On the other hand, some analysis needs to be done on NM.

[0152] exist Figure 4 In step S1001, gNB3 turns on cell c. Then, gNB3 notifies the MN that cell c is now active (not shown). In response, in step S1002, the MN sends a request for performance measurements of cell c to gNB3. In response to this request, in step S1003, gNB3 sends the performance measurements of cell c back to the MN.

[0153] In step S1004, the NM searches for gNBs in the area of ​​cell c. These may be gNBs that control cells in the same geographical area as cell c. In this example, Figure 1 As shown, the NM identifies gNB1, gNB2, and gNB4 within the area of ​​cell c. In steps S1005, S1007, and S1009, the NM sends performance measurement requests to these gNBs. In response to the requests, in steps S1006, S1008, and S1010, gNB1, gNB2, and gNB4 send performance measurements of their serving cells to the NM.

[0154] Using the performance measurements of cell c and the performance measurements of the cells served by gNB1, gNB2, and gNB4, in step S1011, the NM estimates the geographical coverage of the cells and determines which cells overlap with cell c and / or which cells are adjacent to cell c. Figure 1 As shown, the NM determines that cell c is a neighbor of the cells controlled by gNB1 and gNB2.

[0155] In step S1012, NM sends the communication address of gNB3 to gNB1 so that gNB1 can establish the necessary connection with gNB3 for future handover. Figure 1 As shown in the figure, gNB3 and gNB2 have established a communication link, so there is no need to send the communication address of gNB3 to gNB2.

[0156] In summary, some example embodiments involve obtaining subscription rights for updates (on / off) for a given target cell. Subscription rights are managed by the RAN NRF and are granted once the source gNB requests the communication address of the target gNB controlling the target cell from the RAN NRF. In one example embodiment, subscription rights are explicitly assigned to the source gNB by the RAN NRF, allowing the target gNB to contact the source gNB directly using its address when necessary. In another example embodiment, subscription rights are implicit, meaning the NRF is responsible for signaling the required updates to the source gNB after learning about them from the target gNB. Consequently, the number of steps required to obtain the target gNB's address is reduced to a maximum of two, rather than four as in existing methods. This can avoid delays in the handover process, thereby speeding up handovers. In another example embodiment, the source gNB does not need to receive an indication of the target cell controlled by the target gNB in ​​order for the source and target gNBs to establish a connection. Instead, the network administrator is configured to locate gNBs within the target cell's geographic area based on performance measurement reports of cell c received from the target gNB. The network administrator can then obtain performance measurements of cells controlled by gNBs in the same geographic area as the target cell. This allows them to estimate which cells controlled by the gNBs overlap or are adjacent to the target cell and are therefore potential candidates for handover to or from the target cell. In this case, the network administrator sends the address of the target gNB controlling the target cell to the gNBs controlling the target cell's neighboring cells, where such communication links have not yet been established, so that the gNBs can communicate during the handover process. In this way, gNB addresses can be exchanged without waiting for user measurement reports as in the previous embodiment.

[0157] Figure 5 According to an example embodiment, a wireless communication network is schematically illustrated, the network comprising two network nodes and a central network node. Figure 5 The apparatus may be configured to perform the processes defined in the above-described example embodiments. Figure 5 There are two network nodes gNB1 20a and gNB3 20b. This embodiment involves establishing a communication link between the two network nodes, enabling them to send signals to each other, such as during a handover process.

[0158] The network nodes gNB1 and gNB3 comprise transmit circuitry 21 for transmitting signals to user equipment 50, to each other and to the central network node 30. They also comprise receive circuitry 22 for receiving signals from other network nodes.

[0159] Each gNB includes a data repository 24 for storing addresses for communicating with other network nodes, and update circuitry 23 configured to update information in the data repository by deletion or addition. The gNB also includes handover circuitry 25 configured to perform a handover procedure for a UE (e.g., UE 50) to another network node.

[0160] In this example embodiment, there is a central network node 30, which may include an NRF or NM, including a data repository 32 for storing a list of serving cells for each network node, an indication of whether these cells are active or inactive, and, in some embodiments, which network nodes need to update the registers of certain cells. The central network node 30 also includes transmission and reception circuitry 34 for sending and receiving signals to and from network nodes (e.g., gNBs 1 and 3). The central network node 30 may also include determination circuitry 36 configured to locate and / or estimate the geographical area covered by a cell, assuming performance measurements of the cell.

[0161] User equipment 50 includes transmitting circuitry 52 and receiving circuitry 54 for transmitting and receiving signals to and from different network nodes 20a and 20b; measuring circuitry 56 for detecting signals from cells and measuring radio link quality; and report generating circuitry 56 for generating a measurement report for transmission to a network node (e.g., gNB1). The measurement report may include global cell identifiers of one or more detected cells and / or performance measurements of one or more detected cells.

[0162] Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the steps of the various methods described above can be performed by a programmed computer. Some embodiments herein are also intended to encompass program storage devices, such as digital data storage media, which are machine or computer readable and encode a machine-executable or computer-executable program of instructions, wherein the instructions perform some or all of the steps of the above methods. The program storage device can be, for example, a digital memory, a magnetic storage medium such as a disk and tape, a hard drive, or an optically readable digital data storage medium. Embodiments are also intended to encompass computer programming to perform the steps of the above methods. The term non-transient as used herein is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, rather than a signal), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0163] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) solely hardware circuit implementations (e.g., solely in analog and / or digital circuitry) and (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (as applicable):

[0164] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware, and

[0165] (ii) a hardware processor (including a digital signal processor) with software, software, and any portion of memory that work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions), and (c) hardware circuits and / or processors, such as a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor, that require software (such as firmware) to operate, but where the software is not required for operation, the software may be absent.

[0166] This limitation of "circuitry" applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" also covers an implementation consisting solely of a hardware circuit or processor (or processors) or portions of a hardware circuit or processor and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, the term "circuitry" also covers a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit of a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or networking device, if applicable to the particular claim element.

[0167] Although the preceding paragraphs have described example embodiments of the present invention with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed.

[0168] The functionalities described in the preceding description may be used in other combinations than those explicitly described.

[0169] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0170] Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

[0171] In the foregoing description, efforts have been made to draw attention to features regarded as particularly important in the present invention, but it will be understood that the applicants claim protection for any patentable feature or combination of features mentioned hereinabove and / or shown in the accompanying drawings, whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

[0172] Abbreviations

[0173] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)

[0174] Core Network (CN)

[0175] New Radio Cell Global Identifier (NR CGI)

[0176] Network Memory Function (NRF) peer-to-peer (P2P)

[0177] Service-Based Architecture (SBA) Service-Based Interface (SBI) Transport Network Layer (TNL)

Claims

1. A network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: Data repositories; at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: in response to receiving from the user equipment an indication of a cell controlled by another network node, sending to the central network node a request for a communications address of the other network node; in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node from the central network node, storing the communication address of the other network node in the data repository; as well as In response to receiving a status update of the cell, the data repository is updated accordingly.

2. The network node of claim 1 , further caused to perform: in response to receiving the indication that the cell is no longer active, determining whether the other network node controls any other active cell for which the network node is configured to receive updates, and if not, updating the data repository comprises: The communication address of the other network node is removed from the data repository.

3. The network node according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When the update of the status of the cell includes an indication that the cell has been activated, and in response to receiving the communication address of the other network node, updating the data repository includes storing the communication address of the other network node in the data repository.

4. A network node for supporting provision of radio coverage in one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: In response to a change in the state of a cell of the one or more cells, registering the change in state by sending an indication of the change to a central network node.

5. The network node of claim 4, further being caused to perform: activating the cell; and when the cell is already activated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been activated.

6. The network node according to claim 4 or 5, further being caused to perform: deactivating the cell; and when the cell has been deactivated, the indication of the change comprises an indication that the cell has been deactivated.

7. A central network node of a communication network, the central network node being configured to maintain a register of communication addresses of network nodes within the communication network and a list of cells controlled by the network nodes within the communication network, the central network node comprising: a data repository including said register; at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: in response to receiving a registration message from a network node including at least one of: a communication address of a corresponding network node, and a list of cells controlled by the network node, updating the registrar accordingly; as well as In response to receiving a request for a communication address of a second network node from a first network node, the second network node controlling a cell of the communication network identified by the first network node, sends an indication of the communication address of the second network node to the first network node.

8. The central network node of claim 7, further configured to perform: in response to receiving an indication of a change in status of the cell from the second network node, updating the register accordingly.

9. A network node for supporting provision of radio coverage within one or more cells of a communication network, the network node comprising: at least one processor; as well as At least one memory stores instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network node to at least perform: In response to receiving a performance measurement request from a central network node, performance measurements of the one or more cells are sent to the central network node.

10. A central network node of a communication network, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: In response to receiving a performance measurement of a cell controlled by a network node within the communications network, determining other network nodes supporting provision of radio coverage within one or more cells in an area of ​​the cell; as well as Sending a performance measurement request to at least one of the other network nodes; in response to receiving performance measurements of the one or more cells from the at least one of the other network nodes, determining whether any of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell; as well as When it is determined that at least one cell of the one or more cells is adjacent to or overlaps with the cell, a communication address of the network node is sent to the at least one network node of the other network nodes.

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