Computation transfer between network data analysis functions

Abstract

If a first condition for an analytically calculated handover of the user equipment by the analytic function is satisfied, the analytic function requests preparation of the analytically calculated handover from at least one other analytic function of the communication network. If a second condition for the handover of the analytic calculation is satisfied, the analytic function confirms the handover to one of the at least one other analytic function at which the analytic calculation for the user equipment is considered to be complete.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with international application number PCT / EP2020 / 072574, international application date August 12, 2020, entering the Chinese national stage on April 11, 2023, Chinese national application number 202080106087.4, and invention name “Computational transfer between network data analysis functions”. Technical Field

[0002] At least some example embodiments relate to an apparatus, method, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for implementing predictive switching of network data analysis functions. Background Art

[0003] The Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF) performs analytical calculations based on data collected from different data sources such as AMF, SMF, PCF, UDM, AF, and OAM. It uses the service-based architecture (SBA) defined for the 5G Core Network (5GC) to provide analytical calculations identified by 3GPP-defined analytical identifiers to consumers.

[0004] NWDAF features include:

[0005] - Data collection based on subscriptions to events provided by AMF, SMF, PCF, UDM, AF (directly or via NEF) and OAM;

[0006] - Retrieve information from a data repository (e.g., for subscriber related information, via the UDM's UDR);

[0007] - Retrieve information about the NF (e.g., from the NRF for NF-related information); and

[0008] - Provide analytics to consumers on demand.

[0009] List of abbreviations

[0010] 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project

[0011] 5GC: Fifth Generation Core Network

[0012] AF: Application Function

[0013] AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function

[0014] API: Application Programming Interface

[0015] eNA: An enabler for network automation

[0016] NAS: Non-Access Stratum

[0017] NEF network open function

[0018] NF: Network Function

[0019] NRF: Network Repository Function

[0020] NWDAF: Network Data Analysis Function

[0021] OAM: Operations Administration and Maintenance

[0022] PCF: Policy Control Function

[0023] SBA: Service Based Architecture

[0024] SBI: Service Based Interface

[0025] SMF: Session Management Function

[0026] SUPI: Subscription Persistent Identifier

[0027] TAI: Tracking Area Identity

[0028] UDM: Unified Data Management

[0029] UDR: Unified Data Repository

[0030] UE: User Equipment

[0031] URI: Uniform Resource Identifier Summary of the invention

[0032] NWDAF collects data from different NFs, where the data may be collected over a period of time. In some cases, during the period of data collection and analysis calculation, NWDAF may need to switch its analysis calculation to other NWDAFs, or NWDAF may need to offload part of its analysis calculation to other NWDAFs.

[0033] According to at least some example embodiments, a mechanism is provided to switch context data and subscription information to another NWDAF (NWDAF handover). According to at least some example embodiments, a framework for NWDAF handover is provided.

[0034] According to at least some example embodiments, a mechanism is provided to predict and subscribe to (multiple) potential NWDAFs, for example based on UE mobility prediction. According to at least some example embodiments, this includes selecting any analysis context and analysis subscription data and transmitting it to more than one NWDAF, effectively switching the analysis to one of these (multiple) NWDAFs, and finally canceling the analysis subscription to (multiple) other NWDAFs.

[0035] According to at least some example embodiments, there is provided an apparatus, method, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium as defined in the appended claims.

[0036] In the following exemplary embodiments, description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a process of selecting another NWDAF employed in accordance with at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0038] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating a process of selecting another NWDAF employed in accordance with at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0039] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing scenes A, B and C that need to switch to another NWDAF.

[0040] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenario A according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0041] Figure 5 A signaling diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenario A according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0042] Figure 6 A signaling diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenarios B and C according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0043] Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating historical data transfer according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0044] Figure 8 A signaling diagram illustrating analysis output data transmission according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0045] Fig. 9 A flow chart illustrating a predictive switching process according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0046] Fig.10 A schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit in which at least some example embodiments may be implemented is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Hereinafter, example embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] In the following description and features, for simplicity, embodiments and examples are described with reference to NWDAF. However, it is apparent that the principles described in the present disclosure may also be implemented by any other network function having the capability to perform data analysis. Specifically, NWDAF may be implemented in a device for performing an analysis function, or may be a device for performing an analysis function.

[0049] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a process of selecting another NWDAF employed in accordance with at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0050] Typically, the NWDAF may select a new NWDAF via the NRF discovery process. This is applicable when the first NWDAF has enough information about another NWDAF to discover via the NRF.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, NWDAFx 101 wishes to handover to another NWDAF, such as NWDAFy 102. Therefore, NWDAFx 101 uses NRF 103 to discover another NWDAF (ie, NWDAFy 102) that supports the required analysis and service area (step S101). In step S102, NWDAF 101 performs handover to NWDAFy 102.

[0052] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating a process of selecting another NWDAF employed in accordance with at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0053] Specifically, Figure 2 The NWDAF selection after the UE moves out of the area of ​​interest is illustrated.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, UE 204 is attached to AMF1 205 (TAI1 (area 221)) (step S201). NWDAFx 201 supports TAI1 (area 221) supported by AMF1 205, and TAI2 (area 231) and TAI3 (area 231) supported by AMF2 206. NWDAFx 201 is performing analysis specific to UE 204. Therefore, NWDAFx 201 has subscribed to the "area of ​​interest TAI list" to AMF1 201. When UE 204 moves to AMF3 207 (step S202), since NWDAFx 201 has subscribed to the information of UE 204 moving out of the area of ​​interest 211 consisting of TAI1+TAI2+TAI3, AMF3207 sends a notification to NWDAFx 201 to indicate the change of location and current TAI (TAI 7 (area 222)) (step S203).

[0055] In the case where the NWDAFx 201 receives a new TAI (TAI7) which is not served by the NWDAFx 201, the NWDAFx 201 performs discovery of a new NWDAF supporting TAI7, and the NRF 203 provides target NWDAF details (step S204).

[0056] AMF3 207 is supported by NWDAFy 202 , and NWDAFy 202 supports TAI7 (region 222 ) supported by AMF3 207 , and TAI8 (region 232 ) and TAI9 (region 232 ) supported by AMF4 208 .

[0057] As mentioned above, NWDAF collects data from different NFs via subscription / notification API / framework, where data may be collected over a period of time. In some cases, during the period of data collection and analysis, NWDAF may need to switch its analysis to another NWDAF, or NWDAF may need to offload part of its analysis to another NWDAF. Figure 3 Explain these scenarios.

[0058] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated scenario A, NWDAF1 301 serves an area 311 (TAI set, such as TAI-1), UE 304 is attached to area 311, and NWDAF2 302 serves another service area 312 (other TAI set, such as TAI-2). As long as UE 304 is within TAI-1, NWDAF1 301 performs analysis specific to UE 304. At some point, UE 304 moves to TAI-2 served by NWDAF2 302. In this case, NWDAF2 302 needs to start collecting data and providing data and analysis specific to UE 304, and NWDAF2 302 must also take over control of the analysis from NWDAF1 301.

[0059] exist Figure 3 In scenario B shown, NWDAF1 301 is shut down as planned, and then another NWDAF (eg, NWDAF2 302 ) must take over the existing tasks / analysis performed by NWDAF1 301 .

[0060] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated scenario C, NWDAF1 301 is overloaded and wishes to offload some analysis to other NWDAF(s) (eg, NWDAF2 302, NWDAF3 303).

[0061] The requirements for NWDAF in all the above situations are as follows:

[0062] • Switching context data and subscription information to another NWDAF (NWDAF handover). According to at least some example embodiments described below, a framework for NWDAF handover is provided.

[0063] Predict and subscribe to potential NWDAF(s), e.g. based on UE mobility prediction. For example, any context and subscription data needs to be selected and possibly transferred to more than one NWDAF, and eventually other NWDAF(s) need to be unsubscribed.

[0064] According to at least some example embodiments, the NWDAF is able to predict and provide information about the analysis of the UE to one or more potential NWDAFs, which can take over and continue to provide data collection and analysis services at the new location of the UE. According to at least some example embodiments, the NWDAF is able to cancel the analysis of the UE to another NWDAF, for example, in the event of an erroneous prediction and subscription.

[0065] According to at least some example embodiments, an overall process and related details are provided to enable a NWDAF to hand over context, subscription information, and any analytics data to another NWDAF.

[0066] Hereinafter, in Section 1, NWDAF selection for handover (predictive handover—preparation and execution) according to at least some example embodiments will be described. In Section 2, context and subscription delivery procedures according to at least some example embodiments will be described. Section 1: Predictive Handover (Handover Preparation and Handover Execution)

[0067] Scenario A (UE is moving to another area)

[0068] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenario A according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0069] exist Figure 4 In step S401, NWDAFx 401 performs mobility analysis calculation of UE 404 and finds that UE 404 may move out of NWDAFx 401 service area 411 at some time.

[0070] The NWDAFx 401 service area 411 includes an area 421 of TAI1 supported by the AMF1 405 , and an area 431 of TAI2 and TAI3 supported by the AMF2 406 .

[0071] In step S402, NWDAFx 401 uses NRF 410 to discover NWDAFy 402 and NWDAFz 403, which serve possible TAIs to which UE 404 may move.

[0072] For example, NWDAFy 402 serves area 412, which includes area 422 of TAI7 supported by AMF3407, and area 432 of TAI8 and TAI9 supported by AMF4408.

[0073] For example, NWDAFz 403 serves area 413, which includes area 423 of TAI10 and TAI11 supported by AMF5409.

[0074] In step S403, NWDAFx 401 sends a handover preparation request to both NWDAFy 402 and NWDAFz 403 to indicate that the UE can attach in its areas 412, 413, and request these NWDAFs 402, 403 to prepare for handover.

[0075] For example, a handover prepare request is a new SBI message that contains all the details of the analytics calculation and subscription.

[0076] Alternatively, the handover preparation request is implemented by Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe with additional flags and additional information. The additional flag "SubscriptionType=Predictive" indicates that this is a handover preparation request. A handover confirmation will be made later. "SubscriptionType=Predictive" represents an example implementation of an analytically calculated handover indication according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the handover requested to NWDAFy 402 and NWDAFz 403 is a predictive handover.

[0077] According to at least some example embodiments, the additional information includes at least one of the following:

[0078] An indication of the existence of historical data,

[0079] Historical data,

[0080] an indication of the presence of analytical output data, and

[0081] Analyze the output data.

[0082] When the NWDAFy 402 and NWDAFz 403 receive the handover preparation request, these NWDAFs 402, 403 start preparing for the handover. For example, the NWDAFs 402, 403 subscribe to different NFs (AF, OAM, AMF, etc.) specific to the UE 404 based on the information received from the NWDAFx 401. For example, the NWDAFs 402, 403 start collecting historical data stored in a central database (DB) / data lake, which will be described later.

[0083] When UE 404 attaches to AMF3 407 and AMF3 407 notifies NWDAFx 401 of the location (as described above with respect to Figure 2 When the NWDAFx 401 sends a handover confirmation to the NWDAFy 402, and cancels the handover request to the NWDAFz 403, this will refer to Figure 5 Describe in more detail.

[0084] For example, for handover confirmation, NWDAFx 401 sends a handover confirmation message to NWDAFy 402, or alternatively, sends a Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_SubscriptionModify request to NWDAFy 402 to update with "SubscriptionType = Confirmed." "SubscriptionType = Confirmed" represents an example implementation of an analytically calculated handover indication according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the handover requested to NWDAFy 402 is a confirmed handover.

[0085] For example, for handover cancellation, NWDAFx 401 sends a handover cancel message to NWDAFz 403, or alternatively, sends a Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Unsubscribe request to NWDAFz 403 to delete the subscription.

[0086] As described above, according to at least some embodiments, handover preparation, confirmation, and cancellation are implemented through new SBI messages.

[0087] Alternatively, according to at least some embodiments, handover preparation, confirmation, and cancellation are implemented through a new NWDAF service.

[0088] Alternatively, according to at least some embodiments, handover preparation, confirmation and cancellation are achieved through modification of existing NWDAF services.

[0089] Figure 5 A signaling diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenario A according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0090] In step S501, the consumer NF 505 subscribes to a certain analytical calculation, such as UE mobility or UE communication, from the NWDAFx 501 using the Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe message.

[0091] In step S502 , the NWDAFx 501 performs the requested analysis calculation and provides the requested information to the consumer NF 505 .

[0092] In step S503, as a prerequisite for potential handover, NWDAFx 501 periodically performs UE mobility prediction to find out a new TAI to which the UE may attach in the future.

[0093] In step S504, if in step S503, NWDAFx 501 detects the first condition for the switching of the analysis calculation for the UE, for example, NWDAFx 501 predicts that the UE will likely move to a new TAI at a certain time, then it sends a discovery request to NRF503 to request the NWDAF (or multiple NWDAFs) serving these (multiple) TAIs. In response, NRF503 provides NWDAFy 502 and NWDAFz 504 information, for example, NWDAFy 502 and NWDAPFz 504 are serving these predicted (multiple) TAIs.

[0094] In step S505, NWDAFx 501 requests the preparation of the switching of the analytical calculation to NWDAFy 502 by subscribing to NWDAFy 502 using Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe, and in order to inform NWDAFy 502 that the subscription is specific to potential switching, it indicates "SubscriptionType=predictive" to indicate that this is a switching preparation request for the ongoing data analytical calculation of a certain consumer NF 505. As described above, "SubscriptionType=predictive" represents an example implementation of the switching indication of the analytical calculation according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the switching requested to NWDAFy 502 is a predictive switching.

[0095] For example, Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe also includes subscription context (information) (also referred to as "analytics subscription data"), historical data, and NWDAF's analytics output (also referred to as analytics output data), which will be described in more detail later. NWDAFx 501 continues to perform analytics calculations for the UE.

[0096] In step S506, upon successfully receiving Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe in step S505, NWDAFy 502 starts preparing for data collection and analytics computations, for example by subscribing to those NFs related to the specific consumer NF 505 analytics request.

[0097] In step S507, NWDAFx 501 requests the preparation of the switching of the analytical calculation to NWDAFz 504 by subscribing to NWDAFz 504 using Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe, and in order to inform NWDAFz 504 that the subscription is specific to potential switching, it indicates "SubscriptionType=predictive" to indicate that this is a switching preparation request for the ongoing data analytical calculation of a certain consumer NF 505. As described above, "SubscriptionType=predictive" represents an example implementation of the switching indication of the analytical calculation according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the switching requested to NWDAFz 504 is a predictive switching.

[0098] For example, Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe also includes subscription context (information), historical data and analysis output of NWDAF, which will be described in more detail later. NWDAFx 501 continues to perform analysis calculations for the UE.

[0099] In step S508, upon successful receipt of Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe in step S507, the NWDAFz 504 starts preparing for data collection and analytics computations, for example by subscribing to those NFs related to the specific consumer NF 505 analytics request.

[0100] In step S509, based on the actual UE mobility, NWDAFx 501 (eg, corresponding to Figure 4 NWDAFx 401) For example, from Figure 4 The AMF3 407 shown receives the notification that the UE 404 has moved to TAI7. The NWDAFx 501 has received the notification from the NRF 503 (corresponding to Figure 4 The NRF 410 of FIG. 4 has learned and subscribed to the NWDAFy502 (corresponding to the NWDAF402 of FIG. 4 ) serving the TAI 7. In other words, in step S509 , the second condition for switching for analysis and calculation is detected.

[0101] In step S510, when the second condition for switching of analytical calculations is detected, NWDAFx 501 confirms the switching to NWDAFy 502 by sending a Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_SubscriptionModify request with "SubscriptionType=Confirmed" to NWDAFy 502. Upon receiving the confirmation, NWDAFy 502 starts data analysis and prediction to provide the requested analytical calculations to the consumer NF 505. As described above, "SubscriptionType=Confirmed" represents an example implementation of a switching indication of analytical calculations according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the switching requested to NWDAFy 502 is a confirmed switching.

[0102] For example, NWDAFx 501 considers the analysis calculations for the UE to be complete after receiving confirmation that the handover to NWDAFy 502 has been successful. According to at least some example embodiments, in the event that NWDAFx 501 considers the analysis calculations for the UE to be complete, it stops the analysis calculations.

[0103] In step S511 , the NWDAFx 501 cancels the switching request for the previous subscription of the NWDAFz 504 by sending a Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscriptionUnsubscribe request message to the NWDAFz 504 .

[0104] Scenarios B and C (Planned Shutdown or Overload Scenarios)

[0105] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated scenarios B and C, NWDAFx / NWDAF1 knows which other NWDAF (NWDAFy / NWDAF2, NWDAFz / NWDAF3) should be used for handover. Here, NWDAFx / NWDAF1 decides when to initiate a handover prepare message (e.g., to provide enough time for another NWDAF), and when to send a handover confirmation.

[0106] Figure 6 A signaling diagram illustrating NWDAF selection for handover in scenarios B and C according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0107] In step S601, the consumer NF 605 subscribes to the NWDAFx 601 for certain analytics calculations, such as UE mobility or UE communication, using the Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe message.

[0108] In step S602 , the NWDAFx 601 performs the requested analysis calculations and provides the requested information to the consumer NF 605 .

[0109] In step S603, NWDAFx 601 detects that switching will become necessary due to a planned shutdown or predicted onset of overload or other conditions. In other words, NWDAFx 601 detects the first condition for switching for analytical calculation.

[0110] In step S604, the NWDAFx 601 discovers a suitable NWDAF that can serve the consumer NF 605 request received by the NWDAFx 601 in step S601. In this case, there is no need to predict UE mobility.

[0111] In step S605, NWDAFx 601 subscribes to NWDAFy 602 using Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe, and in order to inform NWDAFy 602 that the subscription is specific to a potential handover, it indicates "SubscriptionType=Predictive" to indicate that this is a handover preparation request for ongoing data analytics computation of consumer NF 605. As described above, "SubscriptionType=Predictive" represents an example implementation of a handover indication of analytics computation according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the handover requested to NWDAFy 602 is a predictive handover.

[0112] For example, Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe also includes the subscription context (information), historical data, and analytical output of NWDAF, which will be described in more detail later.

[0113] NWDAFx 601 continues to perform analysis calculations for the UE.

[0114] In step S606, upon successfully receiving Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe in step S605, NWDAFy 602 starts preparing for data collection and analytics computations, for example by subscribing to those NFs related to the specific consumer NF 605 analytics request.

[0115] In step S607, NWDAFx 601 gives a sufficient waiting time so that NWDAFy 602 can prepare for the handover. In step S608, upon detecting the second condition for the handover of the analytical calculation, for example, after the random waiting time, or after receiving a confirmation message from NWDAFy 602 in response to the NWDAFx 601 request sent in step S605, NWDAFx 601 sends a confirmation message to NWDAFy 602 by sending a Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscription request with "SubscriptionType = confirmed". As described above, "SubscriptionType = confirmed" represents an example implementation of a handover indication of the analytical calculation according to at least some example embodiments, which indicates that the handover requested to NWDAFy 602 is a confirmed handover. Thereafter, in the case of scenario B, considering that the analytical calculation of the UE is completed, NWDAFx 601 prepares to shut down, for example, stops performing analytical calculations for the UE.

[0116] Part 2: Context and subscription information delivery

[0117] Once another NWDAF is selected as defined in Part 1, data needs to be transferred to the selected NWDAF. For example, three types of data must be transferred between NWDAFs. According to at least some example embodiments, the data is transferred via a dedicated Nnwdaf_Handover service. Alternatively, according to at least some example embodiments, the data is transferred via any other Nnwdaf service. According to an example implementation, the data is transferred via Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSusbcation_Susbcribe. Alternatively, according to an example implementation, the data is transferred via the Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSusbcation_Handover API.

[0118] According to at least some example embodiments, information related to analytical computing is transmitted to the selected NWDAF, the information including at least one of an indication of switching of analytical computing, analytical subscription data, an indication of the existence of historical data, historical data, an indication of the existence of analytical output data, and analytical output data.

[0119] For example, the indication of the analytically computed handover indicates whether the handover requested from at least one other analytical function is a predictive handover or a confirmatory handover.

[0120] For example, the historical data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the historical data and the historical data itself, and the analysis output data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the analysis output data and the analysis output data itself.

[0121] Table 1 illustrates three types of data according to at least some example embodiments.

[0122] Table 1

[0123]

[0124] For example, when NWDAFx (e.g., Figure 5 NWDAFx 501 or Figure 6 NWDAPFx 601) called by NWDAFy (e.g., Figure 5 NWDAFy 502, NWDAFz 504 or Figure 6 When the NWDAFx 602 provides the API Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Subscribe or Nnwdav_AnalyticsSubscription_Handover request, NWDAFx adds a parameter in the API to indicate at least one of the following:

[0125] This is a predictive or confirmed subscription (as defined during the handover preparation phase).

[0126] URI of historical data stored in NWDAFx or an external database.

[0127] Analyze output availability indication.

[0128] 1. Subscription data delivery

[0129] According to at least some example embodiments, data "subscription context (information)" (also referred to herein as "subscription data" or "analysis subscription data") is transmitted in a handover request, wherein a source NWDAF sends a handover request to another NWDAF transmitting subscription data.

[0130] The subscription data comprises at least one of: a callback URI of a consuming network function that creates a subscription at the analytics function, and the analytics Id and corresponding details including at least one of an expiry, a subscription permanent identifier, and analytics specific information.

[0131] 2. Historical data transmission

[0132] According to at least some example embodiments, the historical data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the historical data, and the historical data itself.

[0133] For example, the historical data includes at least one of the following information:

[0134] - events collected by analytics functions;

[0135] - input data received by the analysis function from a network function of the communication network;

[0136] - the address of the network function; and

[0137] -The time window during which each event collected by the analysis function has been collected.

[0138] Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating historical data transfer according to at least some example embodiments is shown.

[0139] NWDAFx 701 (eg, corresponding to Figure 5 NWDAFx 501 or Figure 6 NWDAPFx 601) stores events received by different NFs, for example, in the NWDAF local storage device ( Figure 7 Option 1 in NWDAFx 701) or a message framework external to NWDAFx 701 (external database 703) ( Figure 7 These stored events are also referred to as historical data. According to at least some example embodiments, the Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSusbcation_Susbcribe or Nnwdav_AnalyticsSusbction_Handover request has an attribute HistoricalDataExternalDBURI=URI that indicates the address of the stored events. If necessary, NWDAFy 702 (e.g., corresponding to Figure 5 NWDAFy 502 or Figure 6 The NWDAFy 602) can retrieve data from the database 703 based on the URI provided by the NWDAFx 701.

[0140] According to at least some example embodiments, historical data transfer is achieved through a push API. For example, NWDAFx calls the API / service Nnwdaf_HistorialData_transfer at NWDAFy and provides historical data details.

[0141] 3. Analyze output data

[0142] For example, according to at least some example embodiments, if you want to Figure 5 NWDAFx 501 or Figure 610 hours of analytical calculations are performed at NWDAFx 601 of FIG. 10 , and after 5 hours, a switch from NWDAFx to NWDAFy is required (e.g., corresponding to Figure 5 NWDAVy 502 or Figure 6 602), NWDAFx generates an output named "Analysis Output of NWDAF" which contains additional information that can be consumed by NWDAFy.

[0143] For example, the analysis output data includes well-defined metadata prepared by the first NWDAF (NWDAFx) based on input received up to the current time.

[0144] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis output data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the analysis output data, and the analysis output data itself.

[0145] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis output data includes metadata prepared by the analysis function.

[0146] For example, the metadata includes at least one of the following:

[0147] - confidence levels, e.g., confidence levels of analytical calculations performed up to the current time;

[0148] - the number of input data analyzed for each of the network functions;

[0149] - the number of input data analyzed for each of the network functions together with the confidence level (together with the confidence level), e.g. the number of events if NWDAF has analyzed NF events for each NF (e.g. NWDAFx will report

[0150] How many inputs have been analyzed for each NF);

[0151] - Predict the outcome;

[0152] - Statistical results;

[0153] - the duration of the analysis calculations to be performed; and

[0154] - The last analysis report of the analysis calculation sent by the analysis function to the network function consumer, and / or the time or other indication of the completion of the last analysis report.

[0155] For example, the metadata also includes analysis specific information useful to other NWDAFs, such as additional analysis calculation results in the case where NWDAFx has performed analysis calculations on the UE. For example, if NWDAFx has performed UE mobility analysis calculations to predict the location of the UE, the results can be shared with NWDAFy.

[0156] The delivery of "NWDAF analysis output" can also be achieved through a push mechanism, such as Figure 8 To this end, in step S801, NWDAFx 801 (for example, corresponding to Figure 5 NWDAFx 501 or Figure 6 NWDAFx 601) calls NWDAFy (e.g., corresponding to Figure 5 NWDAFy 502 or Figure 6 The API / service Nnwdaf_AnalyticsMetaData_Transfer provided by NWDAFy 602) transfers information about the analysis output. Figure 8 In the example shown, the information indicates whether the confidence level is low, medium, or high, the number of inputs analyzed for AMF = 12, the number of outputs analyzed for SMF = ..., AnalyticsDurationConsumed: 5 hours, PredictionResult, ..., PreviousReport.

[0157] In step S802, NWDAFy 802 replies "OK".

[0158] like Figure 8 As shown, keeping the analysis output delivered via a separate API has some advantages, as it enables NWDAF to collect / deliver metadata at a later point in time after the handover is completed or while it is ongoing (during the handover preparation phase).

[0159] According to at least some example embodiments, the above-mentioned analysis output / metadata data is transmitted via a dedicated Nnwdaf_Handover service.Alternatively, according to at least some example embodiments, the above-mentioned analysis output / metadata data is transmitted via any other Nnwdaf service.

[0160] Fig. 9 A flow chart illustrating a predictive switching process according to at least some example embodiments is shown. The process is performed by an analysis function or a device for performing an analysis function, such as Figure 5 NWDAFx 501 or Figure 6 NWDAFx601.

[0161] exist Fig. 9In step S901 of , if a first condition for switching of the analysis calculation performed by the analysis function for the user equipment is met, at least one other analysis function (eg, Figure 5 NWDAFy 502, NWDAFz 504 or Figure 6 NWDAPFy 602 in the request analysis calculation of the preparation of the handover. According to at least some example embodiments, "at least one other analysis function" includes "one other analysis function". According to at least some example embodiments, "at least one other analysis function" includes "a plurality of other analysis functions".

[0162] For example, the means for performing the analysis function may detect a first condition for switching of an analysis calculation performed by the analysis function for the user equipment.

[0163] For example, in Figure 5 Steps S505 and S507 and Figure 6 In step S605, preparation for switching is requested.

[0164] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis function continues to perform analysis calculations for the user device.

[0165] In step S903, if the second condition for switching the analysis calculation is satisfied, the switching to one of the at least one other analysis function is confirmed, and the analysis calculation for the user equipment at the analysis function is deemed to be completed.

[0166] For example, when the second condition for switching the analysis calculation is detected, the apparatus for performing the analysis function may deem or determine that the analysis calculation for the user equipment at the analysis function is completed.

[0167] Then, Fig. 9 The process shown ends.

[0168] According to at least some example embodiments, at least one other analysis function includes a plurality of other analysis functions (e.g., Figure 5 In the case of NWDAFy 502, NWDAFz 504 in FIG. 1 , if the second condition for switching the analysis calculation is satisfied, then in step S903, it is confirmed that the switch is made to one of the other analysis functions (for example, Figure 5 The analysis calculation for the user equipment at the analysis function is considered to be completed. In addition, the remaining other analysis functions (e.g., Figure 5 Switching of NWDAFz 504).

[0169] According to at least some example embodiments, when analysis calculations for a user device at a current analysis function (eg, NWDAFx) are deemed complete, analysis calculations performed by the current analysis function are stopped.

[0170] For example, in Figure 5 Step S510 and Figure 6 In step S608, the switching to NWDAFy is confirmed. In this case, NWDAFy is "one of the at least one other analysis function" or "one of the multiple other analysis functions". Figure 5 In step S511, the switching to NWDAFz is canceled, which is the "remaining other analysis function among the plurality of other analysis functions".

[0171] According to at least some example embodiments, the first condition includes at least one of the following:

[0172] Prediction that the user device is likely to move to an area that is not supported by the analysis function,

[0173] the planned shutdown of analytics functionality, and

[0174] Predicted overload or overload start of the analysis function.

[0175] According to at least some example embodiments, the second condition includes at least one of the following:

[0176] The analysis function obtains a notification that the user equipment has moved to an area not supported by the analysis function,

[0177] a given time has elapsed since preparation for switching was requested from at least one other analysis function,

[0178] The overload of the analytical function has exceeded a predetermined threshold, and

[0179] The predefined time for the planned shutdown of the analytical function has arrived.

[0180] Fig.10 A schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit 1001 in which at least some example embodiments may be implemented is shown.

[0181] Control unit 1001 includes processing resources (eg, processing circuitry) 1011, memory resources (eg, memory circuitry) 1012, and interfaces (eg, interface circuitry) 1013 coupled via connection 1014. Connection 1014 includes at least one of a wired and wireless connection.

[0182] For example, the control unit 1001 implements the features of the NWDAFx / NWDAF1, NWDAFy / NWDAF2, NWDAFz / NWDAF3 described in the above exemplary embodiments. For example, the control unit 1001 implements the features of the means for performing the functions of the NWDAFx / NWDAF1, NWDAFy / NWDAF2, and NWDAFz / NWDAF3 described in the above exemplary embodiments.

[0183] For example, the control unit 1001 is configured to execute Fig. 9 The process shown.

[0184] For example, the memory resource 1012 stores a program that, when executed by the processing resource 1011 , causes the control unit 1001 to operate in accordance with the example embodiments as described above.

[0185] At least some example embodiments are implemented by computer software stored in memory resource 1012 and executable by processing resource 1011 , or by hardware, or by a combination of software and / or firmware and hardware.

[0186] Furthermore, in this application, the term "circuitry" refers to one or more or all of the following:

[0187] (a) hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation only in analog and / or digital circuitry), and

[0188] (b) a combination of circuitry and software (and / or firmware) such as (as applicable):

[0189] (i) a combination of processors, or

[0190] (ii) portions of processors / software (comprising digital signal processor(s), software and memory(s) which work together to cause the device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions), and

[0191] (c) Circuitry, such as microprocessor(s) or portion(s) of microprocessor(s), that requires software or firmware to operate, even if the software or firmware is not physically present.

[0192] This definition of “circuitry” applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term “circuitry” would also cover an implementation of only a processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a processor and its accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, the term “circuitry” would also cover a baseband integrated circuit or application processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other network device, if applicable to the particular claim element.

[0193] According to at least some example embodiments, there is provided an apparatus for performing an analysis function of a communication network, the apparatus comprising: a component for requesting preparation for switching of an analysis calculation performed by the analysis function for a user device from at least one other analysis function of the communication network if a first condition for switching of the analysis calculation is satisfied; and a component for confirming the switching to one of the at least one other analysis functions, the analysis calculation for the user device being deemed completed at the analysis function, if a second condition for switching of the analysis calculation is satisfied.

[0194] According to at least some example embodiments, the at least one other analysis function includes multiple other analysis functions, and the device includes: a component for performing the following operations if the second condition for the switching of the analysis calculation is met: confirming the switching to one of the multiple other analysis functions, the analysis calculation for the user equipment at the analysis function is deemed to be completed, and canceling the switching to the remaining analysis functions of the multiple other analysis functions.

[0195] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for continuing to perform the analysis calculation of the user equipment at least until the second condition for the handover is detected.

[0196] According to at least some example embodiments, the device also includes a component for: transmitting information related to the analysis calculation toward the at least one other analysis function, the information including at least one of the following: an indication of switching of the analysis calculation, analysis subscription data, an indication of the existence of historical data, historical data, an indication of the existence of analysis output data, and analysis output data.

[0197] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting the information related to the analytical calculation in association with requesting the preparation of the handover to the at least one other analytical function.

[0198] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting the information related to the analysis calculation in association with confirming the switching to the one of the at least one other analysis function.

[0199] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting at least one of the historical data and the analysis output data to the at least one other analysis function using a push communication method.

[0200] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for periodically performing prediction of the mobility of the user equipment.

[0201] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for, upon receiving a request to prepare a handover of another analysis calculation to be performed by another analysis function of the communications network for a user equipment, starting preparation of the another analysis calculation.

[0202] According to at least some example embodiments, the means for starting comprises at least one of: means for subscribing to a network function of the communication network related to performing the another analytical calculation for the user device; and means for downloading the historical data related to the another analytical calculation.

[0203] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: a component for unsubscribing from the network function associated with performing the other analytical calculation upon receiving a cancellation of the switch; and / or a component for cancelling the downloading of the historical data associated with the other analytical calculation.

[0204] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for, upon receiving confirmation of the switching, commencing notification to an analytics consumer of an output of the another analytics computation.

[0205] According to at least some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for acquiring at least one of historical data and analysis output data associated with the another analysis calculation based on the information associated with the another analysis calculation.

[0206] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis function is a network data analysis function NWDAF of a core network compliant with the fifth generation 5G communication standard.

[0207] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis function calculates analysis based on data collected from different data sources, and the data sources include at least one of an access and mobility management function AMF, a session management function SMF, a policy control function PCF, a unified data management UDM application function AF, and operations management and maintenance (OAM).

[0208] According to at least some example embodiments, the analysis function uses a service-based architecture SBA defined for the core network compliant with the fifth generation 5G communication standard to provide an analysis identified by an analysis identifier defined by the third generation partnership project 3GPP to a consumer.

[0209] The independent claims set out the scope of protection sought for various example embodiments. Some other aspects are defined in the dependent claims. Example embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding the various example embodiments.

[0210] It should be understood that the above description is illustrative and should not be interpreted as limiting the present disclosure. Various modifications and applications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for performing an analysis function of a communication network, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least perform: Determining that a first condition for switching of the analysis calculation by the analysis function for the user equipment is satisfied, wherein the first condition comprises at least one of the following: a prediction that the user equipment is likely to move to an area not supported by the analysis function, the planned closure of said analytics functionality, or predicted overload or onset of overload of said analysis function; in response to determining that the first condition for the handover is satisfied, transmitting a subscription request towards at least one other analysis function of the communication network, the subscription request comprising a subscription type indicating that the subscription request is a handover preparation request requesting the at least one other analysis function to perform preparation for the handover of the analysis calculation; as well as If a second condition for the switching of the analysis calculation is satisfied, the switching to one of the at least one other analysis function is confirmed, at which analysis function the analysis calculation for the user equipment is deemed to be completed.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one other analysis function comprises a plurality of other analysis functions, and the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: If the second condition for the switching of the analytical calculation is satisfied, then confirming the switching to one of the plurality of other analysis functions, at which the analysis calculation for the user equipment is deemed complete, and The switching to the remaining other analysis functions among the plurality of other analysis functions is canceled.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second condition comprises at least one of the following: The device obtains a notification that the user equipment has moved to the area not supported by the analysis function, a given time has elapsed since said preparation for said switching was requested from said at least one other analysis function, the overload of the analysis function has exceeded a predetermined threshold, or A predefined time for the planned shutdown of the analysis function has arrived.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: transmitting information related to the analytical calculation toward the at least one other analytical function, the information comprising at least one of: Analyze subscription data, An indication of the existence of historical data, Historical data, an indication of the presence of analytical output data, and Analyze the output data.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the analysis subscription data comprises at least one of the following: the callback uniform resource identifier of the consuming network function that creates the subscription at the analytics function, or An analysis identification and corresponding details, including at least one of an expiration, a subscription permanent identifier, or analysis specific information.

6. The device according to claim 4, wherein: The historical data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the historical data or the historical data itself, or The analysis output data includes at least one of an identifier of a storage location of the analysis output data or the analysis output data itself.

7. The device according to claim 4, wherein The historical data includes at least one of the following: events collected by said analytics functionality; input data received by the analysis function from a network function of the communication network; the address of the network function; the time window during which said information is collected, or The analysis output data includes metadata prepared by the analysis function, wherein the metadata includes at least one of the following: Confidence level; a number of input data analyzed for each of the network functions; said number of input data analyzed for each of said network functions together with said confidence level; Predict results; Statistical results; the duration for performing said analytical calculations; or A final analysis report of the analysis calculation sent by the analysis function to a network function consumer, and / or a time or other indication of when the final analysis report was completed.

8. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform at least one of the following: in association with requesting said preparation of said switching to said at least one other analysis function, transmitting said information related to said analysis calculation, or In association with confirming the switch to the one of the at least one other analysis function, the information related to the analysis calculation is transmitted.

9. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: At least one of the historical data and the analysis output data is transmitted to the at least one other analysis function using a push communication method.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: The preparation of the handover is requested using at least one of: Messages based on the service-based interface SBI, or Based on the services of the network data analysis function NWDAF, or Confirm the switch using at least one of the following: Messages based on the service-based interface SBI, or Based on the services of the network data analysis function NWDAF, or Use at least one of the following to cancel the switch: Messages based on the service-based interface SBI, or Based on the network data analysis function NWDAF service.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: Prediction of the mobility of the user equipment is performed periodically.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: Upon receipt of a request to prepare for a switch of another analysis calculation to be performed by another analysis function of the communication network for the user equipment, preparation of the another analysis calculation is started.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the starting comprises at least one of: subscribing to a network function of the communications network associated with performing the further analytical computation for the user equipment; or The historical data associated with the another analytical calculation is downloaded.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: upon receiving the cancellation of the switching, unsubscribing from the network function associated with performing the another analytical computation; or The downloading of the historical data related to the another analytical calculation is canceled.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: Upon receiving confirmation of the switch, initiating notification of the output of the other analytical calculation to the analytical consumer.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to further perform: At least one of historical data or analysis output data associated with the other analysis calculation is obtained based on the information associated with the other analysis calculation.

17. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The analysis function is a network data analysis function NWDAF of a core network that complies with the fifth generation 5G communication standard, and / or The analysis function calculates analysis based on data collected from different data sources, the data sources including at least one of an access and mobility management function AMF, a session management function SMF, a policy control function PCF, a unified data management UDM, an application function AF, or operations management and maintenance (OAM), or The analysis function uses a service-based architecture SBA defined for the core network compliant with the fifth-generation 5G communication standard to provide the consumer with analysis identified by an analysis identifier defined by the Third Generation Partnership Project 3GPP.

18. A method for use by an analysis function of a communication network, the method comprising: Determining that a first condition for switching of the analysis calculation by the analysis function for the user equipment is satisfied, wherein the first condition comprises at least one of the following: a prediction that the user equipment is likely to move to an area not supported by the analysis function, the planned closure of said analytics functionality, or predicted overload or onset of overload of said analysis function; in response to determining that the first condition for the handover is satisfied, transmitting a subscription request towards at least one other analysis function of the communication network, the subscription request comprising a subscription type indicating that the subscription request is a handover preparation request requesting the at least one other analysis function to perform preparation for the handover of the analysis calculation; as well as If a second condition for the switching of the analysis calculation is satisfied, the switching to one of the at least one other analysis function is confirmed, at which analysis function the analysis calculation for the user equipment is deemed to be completed.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the at least one other analysis function comprises a plurality of other analysis functions, and the method comprises: If the second condition for the switching of the analytical calculation is satisfied, then confirming the switching to one of the plurality of other analysis functions, at which the analysis calculation for the user equipment is deemed complete, and The switching to the remaining other analysis functions among the plurality of other analysis functions is canceled.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program used by an analysis function of a communication network, the program, when executed by a computer, causing the computer to at least perform: Determining that a first condition for switching of the analysis calculation by the analysis function for the user equipment is satisfied, wherein the first condition comprises at least one of the following: a prediction that the user equipment is likely to move to an area not supported by the analysis function, the planned closure of said analytics functionality, or predicted overload or onset of overload of said analysis function; in response to determining that the first condition for the handover is satisfied, transmitting a subscription request towards at least one other analysis function of the communication network, the subscription request comprising a subscription type indicating that the subscription request is a handover preparation request requesting the at least one other analysis function to perform preparation for the handover of the analysis calculation; as well as If a second condition for the switching of the analysis calculation is satisfied, the switching to one of the at least one other analysis function is confirmed, at which analysis function the analysis calculation for the user equipment is deemed to be completed.

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