Enhanced gmlc-based data collection for aiml positioning

Abstract

Various example embodiments of the subject disclosure relate to an apparatus, a method, and a computer program for performing data collection. One such example embodiment relates to a method comprising: generating a request to configure and collect positioning measurements from at least one user equipment in a network, the request comprising information regarding which positioning process is to be used to collect the positioning measurements; sending a request to the network element; and receiving a response from the network element, the response including the positioning measurement and the positioning-related information.

Description

Cross-references to this application

[0001] This application claims priority to UK Patent Application No. 2312330.0, filed on 11 August 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference as if reproduced in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The example embodiments relate to apparatus, methods, and computer program products for providing enhanced GMLC-based data collection for AIML localization. Background Technology

[0003] The following meanings apply to the abbreviations used in this specification: AI (Artificial Intelligence) AIML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) AMF Access and Mobility Functions AoA Angle of Arrival CSI Channel State Information GMLC Gateway Mobile Location Center LCM – Lifecycle Management LCS Location Services LMF location management function LPP LTE positioning protocol Minimum Drive Testing (MDT) ML Machine Learning NEF Network Exposure Function NF Network Functions NW Network NWDAF Network Data Analysis Function PRS Positioning Reference Symbol RRM Radio Resource Management RSRP reference symbol received power RSRPP Reference Symbol Receive Path Power SON self-optimizing network TCE Tracking Collection Entities TDOA arrival time difference ToA Arrival Time TRP Transmitter / Receiver Point UDM Unified Data Management UE User Equipment UP U-plane, user plane

[0004] Example implementations (though not limited thereto) involve data collection, particularly offline training for UE-side models (i.e., inference against models that are executed on the UE), and training for NW-side (e.g., LMF-side and gNodeB-side) models. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The example implementations for addressing this situation aim to provide an improved approach to data collection, for example, for offline training of user device-side models and network-side models.

[0006] Various aspects of the various exemplary embodiments will be described with respect to certain aspects. These aspects are not intended to indicate key or essential features of the various exemplary embodiments, nor are they intended to be used in any other way to limit the scope of this subject matter disclosure. In view of this subject matter disclosure, other features, aspects, and elements of the various exemplary embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0007] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory including computer program code configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: generate a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; send the request to a network element; and receive a response from the network element, the response including location measurements and location-related information.

[0008] Based on some examples from the first aspect, this information about which positioning process will be used may include: information about the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect positioning measurements.

[0009] Based on some examples from the first aspect, information about which positioning process is used can be predefined parameters.

[0010] According to some examples of the first aspect, the received positioning measurement may include positioning-related physical layer measurements; and the received positioning-related information may include configuration data related to the measurement, and auxiliary data related to the measurement.

[0011] Based on some examples from the first aspect, the network element could be a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0012] According to some examples of the first aspect, at least one memory and computer program code may also be configured to, when executed by at least one processor, cause the device to also perform: sending a request by inserting information based on the configured request into a predefined field of a location request message defined for the interface of the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), and / or receiving a response in a predefined field of a message defined for the interface of the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0013] Based on some examples from the first aspect, the information inserted into a predefined field can be a flag.

[0014] Based on some examples from the first aspect, the device may include a Location Services (LCS) client.

[0015] Based on some examples from the first aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning AIML models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0016] According to a second aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory including computer program code configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; configure the user equipment to perform a location process based on the received request, and acquire location measurements and location-related information; and, in response to the request for collecting location measurements, send a response including the acquired location measurements and the acquired location-related information.

[0017] Based on some examples from the second aspect, this information about which positioning process is used may include: information about the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect positioning measurements.

[0018] According to some examples of the second aspect, the acquired positioning measurements may include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and the acquired positioning-related information may include: configuration data related to the measurement, and auxiliary data related to the measurement.

[0019] According to some examples of the second aspect, the device may include a location management function (LMF).

[0020] Based on some examples from the second aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0021] According to a third aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following operations: receiving a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location procedure will be used to collect the location measurements; forwarding the request to a network control element, the request including the information about which location procedure will be used; receiving location measurements and location-related information in response to the forwarded request; and sending a response in response to the request for collecting location measurements, the response including the received location measurements and location-related information.

[0022] According to some examples of the third aspect, at least one memory and computer program code may be configured together with at least one processor such that the device also performs: receiving a request from a network function for collecting location measurements; forwarding the request to an Access and Mobility Function (AMF); receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the AMF; and sending a response to the network function, the response including the received location measurements.

[0023] According to some examples of the third aspect, the device may include a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0024] According to some examples of the third aspect, the at least one memory and computer program code may be configured to, when executed by at least one processor, cause the device to also perform: receiving from the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in the network; forwarding the request to the Location Management Function (LMF); receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the LMF; and sending a response to the GMLC, the response including the received location measurements and location-related information.

[0025] According to some examples of the third aspect, the device may include access and mobility functions (AMF).

[0026] Based on some examples from the third aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0027] According to the fourth aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising:

[0028] Generate a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; send the request to a network element; and receive a response from the network element, the response including location measurements and location-related information.

[0029] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, this information about which positioning process will be used may include: information about the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect positioning measurements.

[0030] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, information about which positioning process is used can be predefined parameters.

[0031] According to some examples of the fourth aspect, the received positioning measurement may include positioning-related physical layer measurements; and the received positioning-related information may include configuration data associated with the measurement, and auxiliary data associated with the measurement.

[0032] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, the network element could be a gateway mobile location center (GMLC).

[0033] According to some examples of the fourth aspect, the method may also include: sending a request by inserting information based on the configured request into a predefined field of a location request message defined for the interface to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), and / or receiving a response in a predefined field of a message defined for the interface to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0034] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, the information inserted into a predefined field can be a flag.

[0035] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, this method can be executed by a Location Services (LCS) client.

[0036] Based on some examples from the fourth aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0037] According to a fifth aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; configuring the user equipment configuration to perform the location process based on the received request, and acquiring the location measurements and location-related information; and sending a response in response to the request for collecting the location measurements, the response including the acquired location measurements and the acquired location-related information.

[0038] Based on some examples from the fifth aspect, information about which positioning process is used may include: information about the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect positioning measurements.

[0039] According to some examples of the fifth aspect, the acquired positioning measurements may include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and the acquired positioning-related information may include: configuration data related to the measurement, and auxiliary data related to the measurement.

[0040] Based on some examples from the fifth aspect, this method can be executed by the location management function LMF.

[0041] Based on some examples from the fifth aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0042] According to a sixth aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving a request for collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; forwarding the request to a network control element, the request including the information about which location process will be used; receiving location measurements and location-related information in response to the forwarded request; and sending a response in response to the request for collecting the location measurements, the response including the received location measurements and location-related information.

[0043] According to some examples of the sixth aspect, the method may further include: receiving a request from a network function for collecting location measurements; forwarding the request to an access and mobility function (AMF); receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the AMF; and sending a response to the network function, the response including the received location measurements.

[0044] Based on some examples from the sixth aspect, this method can be executed by the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0045] According to some examples of the sixth aspect, the method may further include: receiving from the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in the network; forwarding the request to the Location Management Function (LMF); receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the LMF; and sending a response to the GMLC, the response including the received location measurements and location-related information.

[0046] Based on some examples from the sixth aspect, this method can be implemented by the Access and Mobility Function (AMF).

[0047] Based on some examples from the sixth aspect, location measurements can be collected for the purpose of training and / or validating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) models used to determine user equipment location estimates.

[0048] According to a seventh aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components for generating a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; components for sending the request to a network element; and components for receiving a response from the network element including location measurements and location-related information.

[0049] According to some examples of the seventh aspect, the apparatus may further include: a component for sending a request by inserting information based on the configured request into a predefined field of a location request message defined for the interface to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), and / or a component for receiving a response in a predefined field of a message defined for the interface to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0050] According to an eighth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for receiving a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; means for configuring the user equipment to perform the location process and acquire location measurements and location-related information based on the received request; and means for sending a response including the acquired location measurements and acquired location-related information in response to the request for collecting location measurements.

[0051] According to a ninth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for receiving a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in a network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; means for forwarding the request including the information about which location process will be used to a network control element; means for receiving location measurements and location-related information in response to the forwarded request; and means for sending a response including the received location measurements and location-related information in response to the request for collecting location measurements.

[0052] According to some examples of the ninth aspect, the apparatus may further include: components for receiving a request from a network function for collecting location measurements; components for forwarding the request to an Access and Mobility Function (AMF); components for receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the AMF; and components for sending a response to the network function including the received location measurements.

[0053] According to some examples of the ninth aspect, the device may include a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

[0054] According to some examples of the ninth aspect, the apparatus may further include: components for receiving from the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user equipment in the network; components for forwarding the request to the Location Management Function (LMF); components for receiving the location measurements and location-related information from the LMF; and components for sending a response to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) including the received location measurements and location-related information.

[0055] According to some examples of the ninth aspect, the device may include an access and mobility function (AMF).

[0056] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a computer program product is provided, comprising code components (or instruction sets) for executing, when run on a processing component or module, a method according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects and / or modifications thereof. The computer program product may be embodied on a computer-readable medium, and / or may be directly loaded into the internal memory of a computer, and / or may be transmitted via a network by means of at least one of the processes of uploading, downloading, and pushing. Attached Figure Description

[0057] These and other objects, features, details, and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with exemplary embodiments in the accompanying drawings:

[0058] Figure 1A A data collector (e.g., NF) 1 according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0059] Figure 1B The process performed by data collector 1 according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0060] Figure 2A An LMF 2 according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0061] Figure 2B The process performed by LMF 2 according to the example embodiment is shown.

[0062] Figure 3A An intermediate network element (e.g., GMLC or AMF) 3 according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0063] Figure 3B The process performed by intermediate network element 3 according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0064] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the AIML location data collection and retrieval process based on GMLC according to an example embodiment.

[0065] Figure 5 The illustration shows the addition of an Ngmlc location request according to an example embodiment.

[0066] Figure 6 The illustration shows the addition of an Ngmlc position response according to an example embodiment.

[0067] Figure 7 The illustration shows the addition of a Namf location request according to an example embodiment.

[0068] Figure 8 The illustration shows the addition of an Nlmf location request according to an example embodiment, and

[0069] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates a non-roaming reference architecture for location services. Detailed Implementation

[0070] In the following description, exemplary embodiments will be used. However, it should be understood that the description is given by way of example only, and the exemplary embodiments described should in no way be construed as limiting.

[0071] Before describing the example embodiments, the problems of the prior art are discussed in more detail below.

[0072] As described above, some example embodiments are intended for data collection, particularly for offline training of UE-side models (i.e., inference against models executed on the UE). One approach is to consider using existing frameworks as a starting point for data collection. According to some example embodiments, enhanced interfaces Ngmlc to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), Namf between the GMLC and Access and Mobility Functions (AMF), and Nlmf between the AMF and Location Management Functions (LMF) are proposed, and the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) (one of the listed data collection frameworks to be studied) is used to collect location estimates and positioning measurements from the UE.

[0073] The network operator has indicated that it expects the collected data to also be usable by the network. According to some example embodiments, the proposed solution uses a network-driven approach where network-aware data collection enables the network to store the collected data even if the final destination of the data collection is outside the network.

[0074] There is currently no formal agreement on the training location, but training on the UE side, training on the NW side, and training on the vendor's server have been discussed.

[0075] According to some example embodiments, the mechanism to be modified begins with an input interface to a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), which acts as a network entity to coordinate location requests from certain network functions (NFs), including Network Data Analysis Functions (NWDAF). In its current implementation, the Ngmlc, Namf, and Nlmf interfaces do not support requests for specific positioning modes (e.g., UE-based and UE-assisted) or positioning methods (e.g., DL TDOA, DL AoD) that are useful for collecting data specific to AIML models that require specific measurements for training. Additionally, the same interfaces only support the transmission of UE location, but in addition to location information, measurement data and auxiliary data will also be needed to support data collection for AIML models.

[0076] Figure 9 (This refers to the reference point in TS 23.273 v17.8.0) Figure 4 2.1-1: Non-roaming Reference Architecture for Location Services illustrates the location-related architecture, including interfaces between components. Note that, according to the example embodiments described below, only existing interfaces are enhanced.

[0077] The following specifications—TS29.515 (Ngmlc interface specification), TS29.518 (Namf interface specification), and TS29.572 (Nlmf interface specification)—define interfaces and protocols that enable: the configuration and transmission of data between the data collector and the GMLC; the configuration and transmission of data between the GMLC and the AMF; and the configuration and transmission of data between the LMF and the AMF. The existing protocol definitions are enhanced through implementations of some example embodiments described below. Additionally, TS37.355 defines the LPP protocol, which is used to configure the UE with a positioning session. The LPP protocol remains unchanged, but is used by some example embodiments to collect measurement data for AIML positioning from the UE at the LMF.

[0078] To support the creation of AIML models for each use case defined in the 3GPP RAN: CSI compression; CSI prediction; beam management; and enhanced positioning, UE and modem chipset suppliers require a method to collect measurement data and tags from UEs on the real-time network. Currently, there is neither any RAN-centric data collection mechanism that terminates at a third-party server inside the network nor any RAN-centric data collection mechanism that terminates at a third-party server outside the network.

[0079] In the current specification, LMF controls the localization method and mode because it evaluates the optimal localization method for the UE based on the UE's capabilities and conditions (e.g., channel conditions, line-of-sight (LOS) / non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions) when a localization request is made. For data collection, the data collection entity may require specific types of measurements to support the training and estimation of the AIML model.

[0080] For location tracking, there is no mechanism in the network (e.g., in LMF or NWDAF) for collecting measurement data. Currently, only the UE location can be queried and stored, but this is not useful for training AIML models.

[0081] According to some example embodiments, the collection of localization measurements and related information suitable for training AIML models, etc., is enabled.

[0082] In the following text, by reference Figure 1A , 1B A general overview of some example embodiments, namely 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, is described.

[0083] Figure 1A A data collector 1 according to this example embodiment is shown. Data collector 1 is an example of a device, which may be, for example, a network function (NF) or a network data analytics function (NWDAF) or a part thereof. The processes performed by data collector 1 are... Figure 1B The image is shown in the middle. Figure 1A The data collector 1 shown includes at least one processor 11 and at least one memory 12, the at least one memory 12 including computer program code. The at least one processor 11, together with the at least one memory 12 and the computer program code, is configured to cause the device to perform: generating a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements. Figure 1B S11 in the middle); sending requests to network elements (e.g., GMLC) ( Figure 1B S12); and receiving a response from a network element, the response including positioning measurements and positioning-related information ( Figure 1B (S13 in the middle).

[0084] Figure 2A An LMF 2 according to this example embodiment is shown. The LMF 2 is an example for a device, which may be, for example, a network control element performing location management functions or a part thereof. The process performed by the LMF 2 is... Figure 2B The image is shown in the middle. Figure 2AThe LMF 2 shown includes at least one processor 21 and at least one memory 22, the at least one memory 22 including computer program code. The at least one processor 21, together with the at least one memory 22 and the computer program code, is configured to cause the device to perform: receiving a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements. Figure 2B S21); Based on the received request, configure the user equipment to perform the positioning process and acquire positioning measurements and positioning-related information ( Figure 2B S22); and in response to a request for collecting positioning measurements, sending a response including the acquired positioning measurements and acquired positioning-related information (S22); Figure 2B (S23 in the text).

[0085] Figure 3A An intermediate network element 3, such as a GMLC or AMF, is illustrated according to this example embodiment. This intermediate network is an example for a device, for example, through which requests and responses sent and transmitted by the aforementioned data collector 1 and LMF 2 can be exchanged and forwarded. The processes performed by the intermediate network element 3... Figure 3B The image is shown in the middle. Figure 3A The intermediate network element 3 shown includes at least one processor 31 and at least one memory 32, the at least one memory 32 including computer program code. The at least one processor 31, together with the at least one memory 32 and the computer program code, is configured to cause the device to perform: receiving a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user equipment in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements. Figure 3B (S31 in the original text); forwards a request to the network control element (e.g., AMF or LMF), which includes information about which positioning procedure will be used ( Figure 3B S32 in the context of the request; in response to the forwarded request, receive positioning measurements and positioning-related information ( Figure 3B S33 in the above); and in response to a request for collecting positioning measurements, sending a response including the received positioning measurements and positioning-related information ( Figure 3B (S34 in the text).

[0086] Intermediate network element 3 can be a GMLC, in which case, as an intermediate network element of GMLC in NF (e.g., Figure 1A The data collector 1) forwards requests and responses between itself and the AMF. The intermediate network element 3 can be the AMF, in which case, as an intermediate network element of the AMF, it is located within the LMF (e.g., Figure 2A In the LMF 2) the forwarding of requests and responses between the LMF and GMLC.

[0087] Therefore, according to the example embodiment, the data collector can determine or configure the UE's positioning measurement by instructing the positioning process (positioning method and / or mode) to be used, and can receive not only positioning measurement, but also information related to the positioning measurement.

[0088] In this way, data can be obtained to support the creation of AIML models used for localization.

[0089] Figure 1A , 2A The devices 1, 2 and 3 shown in 3A may include more components than described above, and may also include I / O units 13 and 23 capable of sending to and receiving from other network elements.

[0090] Information about which positioning process will be used may include: information about the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect positioning measurements.

[0091] Information about which positioning process is used can be predefined parameters, such as requestedPositioningModeAndMethod, which will be described later.

[0092] The received positioning measurements may include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and the received positioning-related information may include configuration data and auxiliary data related to the measurement.

[0093] The received location-related information and information about which location process will be used to collect location measurements can be used for machine learning (ML) purposes, such as for training and / or monitoring ML or AIML models.

[0094] The aforementioned data collector 1 can also be a CN entity / function, such as NWDAF, the Trajectory Collection Entity (TCE) used for Minimized Road Test (MDT), and an LCS client, which can typically be implemented as an application function at any entity (including external servers).

[0095] The configuration data described above (also known as location configuration data) includes information about and related to the location process (location mode and / or method), such as a specific configuration for a particular location method. For example, a concrete example of such configuration data could be the LPP configuration from LMF to UE.

[0096] Configuration data may also include: configuration including the TRP to be measured, the positioning reference symbol (PRS) mode and period, and what measurements will be performed on the PRS (e.g., reference symbol received power (RSRP), reference symbol received path power (RSRPP), angle of arrival (AoA), time of arrival (ToA), etc.).

[0097] The auxiliary data (also known as positioning auxiliary data) described above includes additional information about and related to the positioning process. For example, a specific example of such auxiliary data could be Transmit Receive Point (TRP) information sent from the LMF to the UE.

[0098] In the following text, some example embodiments are described in more detail.

[0099] Specifically, according to some embodiments, a process is provided by collecting location-related measurements using a GMLC, from which other network functions (NFs) (such as Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF)) or external servers (e.g., Location Services (LCS) clients or NFs accessible via Network Exposure Function (NEF)) can obtain the collected location-related measurements by enhancing existing protocols and interfaces between NFs, GMLCs, AMFs, LMFs, and UEs to support the transmission of new fields in new messages and / or existing messages carrying each associated measurement, tag, and configuration.

[0100] The enhancements cover the following aspects:

[0101] NF is enabled to use GMLC to configure and collect the following data: - Configure or request location mode and location method - Collect positioning-related physical layer measurements, including but not limited to Reference Symbol Received Power (RSRP), Reference Symbol Received Path Power (RSRPP), Angle of Arrival (AoA), and Time of Arrival (ToA). - Collect configuration data related to measurement - Collect auxiliary data related to measurement

[0102] In addition, a request for positioning measurements from GMLC for data collection used in AIML positioning was added.

[0103] Requests for positioning measurements for data collection used in AIML positioning are propagated from GMLC to LMF via AMF.

[0104] Positioning measurements for AIML positioning data collection are sent from LMF to GMLC via AMF.

[0105] Positioning measurements for AIML positioning data collection are sent from GMLC to the data collection requester.

[0106] Requests for configuration and auxiliary data related to data collection for AIML positioning from GMLC have been added.

[0107] Requests for configuration and auxiliary data related to data collection for AIML positioning are propagated from GMLC to LMF via AMF.

[0108] Ancillary data related to data collection used for AIML positioning is sent from LMF to GMLC via AMF.

[0109] In the following, a series of additions to the existing protocol messaging definitions for the Ngmlc, Namf, and Nlmf interfaces are described according to some example embodiments.

[0110] First, the overall data collection process will use Figure 4 The call flow shown is described, and then a series of steps required to adapt the current protocol to support the data collection process will be described.

[0111] Note that message names are selected from existing standards, but there are no requirements for the use of any particular message name, as they are only written as examples. This concept involves interaction between NFs to complete data collection. Other NFs may be involved, such as Unified Data Management (UDM) and User Equipment (UE), but they are omitted for brevity as this invention does not involve changing their functionality. UE participation will be noted in the text when required.

[0112] In process A1, the data collector (such as NWDAF or external NF) initiates the data collection process by issuing a location request to the GMLC, including the required positioning mode and method in the request. Figure 4 In this context, the request is referred to as "Ngmlc_Location_ProvideLocation_Request", and the required positioning mode and method are indicated by the inserted parameter "requestedPositioningModeAndMethod". This will be defined in the updated version of TS 29.515.

[0113] In procedure A2, GMLC forwards the same request to AMF, which includes the required positioning mode and method. This request is called "Namf_Location_ProvidePosInfo_Request," and the required positioning mode and method are indicated by the inserted parameter "requestedPositioningModeAndMethod." This will be defined in the later version of TS 29.518.

[0114] In procedure A3, the AMF also forwards the same request to the LMF, which includes the required positioning mode and method. This request is called "Nlmf_Location_DetermineLocation_Request," and the required positioning mode and method are indicated by the insert parameter "requestedPositioningModeAndMethod." This will be defined in a later version of TS 29.572.

[0115] Between process A3 and subsequent process A4, LMF configures the UE with a location session via LPP and performs a standard location procedure.

[0116] In procedure A4, the LMF sends a response to the AMF, which includes positioning measurements collected by the UE, multiple configurations used by the UE, and auxiliary data sent to the UE. Figure 4 In this context, the response is referred to as "Nlmf_Location_DeterminedLocation_Response".

[0117] In procedure A5, the AMF forwards the same response from the LMF to the GMLC. This response includes location measurements collected by the UE, the configuration(s) used by the UE, and auxiliary data sent to the UE. This response is called "Namf_Location_ProvidePosInfo_Response".

[0118] In procedure A6, the GMLC also forwards the same response from the GMLC to the data collector. This response includes location measurements collected by the UE, configuration(s) used by the UE, and auxiliary data sent to the UE. This response is called "Ngmlc_Location_ProvideLocation_Response".

[0119] Once these processes are complete, the data collector has acquired the requested location measurements, configuration, and auxiliary data.

[0120] To enable these processes (i.e., processes 1 through 6), modifications to the relevant interfaces between the data collector and GMLC, between GMLC and AMF, and between AMF and LMF will be necessary. These modifications are described below with reference to some configuration aspects.

[0121] The first configuration aspect is to add fields to support the transmission of positioning measurement data (e.g., RSRP, RSRPP, AoA, ToA, etc.), positioning configuration data (e.g., LPP configuration from LMF to UE), and positioning auxiliary data (e.g., Transmit-Receive Point (TRP) information sent from LMF to UE).

[0122] According to an embodiment of this first configuration aspect, to help restrict access to measurement data collected for AIML positioning, a new LCS Service Type ID can be added to support AIML data collection. Measurements can then be collected only when this service type is configured. The LCSServiceTypeID can optionally be used to enable the addition of the "requestedPositioningModeAndMethod" field to the submitted location request message. Normally, the LMF determines and reports the positioning method and mode, but in this case, it is intended to specify which method and mode will be used for data collection. In other words, in the current case, the data collector is enabled to specify the positioning method and mode that will actually be used.

[0123] In addition to the first embodiment of this configuration, a Boolean flag (e.g., "Include Measurement Data") can be added to request messages destined for the GMLC, AMF, and LMF to indicate whether measurement data and (multiple) location estimates (if available) should be sent to the data collector (e.g., NWDAF or external NF). This flag essentially enables or disables the collection of measurement data.

[0124] In addition to the first two embodiments regarding this configuration, multiple Boolean flags (e.g., "Include configuration data" and "Include auxiliary data") may be added to request messages destined for GMLC, AMF, and LMF to indicate whether configuration and / or auxiliary data (if available) should be sent to the data collector (e.g., NWDAF or external NF). These flags essentially enable or disable the collection of configuration and / or auxiliary data.

[0125] The second configuration aspect involves adding the positioning mode and method to location-specific requests in Ngmlc, Namf, and Nlmf. The positioning mode and method essentially define the context for data collection used in AIML positioning. Based on the positioning mode and method, LMF configures the relevant measurement types.

[0126] Figure 5 And as described later Figure 7 and Figure 8 Accordingly, the diagrams illustrate adding the requested location patterns and methods to Ngmlc location requests, Namf location requests, and Nlmf location requests. The examples provided in these diagrams are intended to demonstrate the nature of the enhancements, rather than suggesting exact solutions for enhancing the interfaces.

[0127] Specifically, Figure 5 The illustration shows the addition to the Ngmlc InputData for location requests in TS29515_Ngmlc_Location.yaml from TS29.515 (v18.1.0). This addition is indicated using italics. Ngmlc location requests are in... Figure 4 In process A1, the data is sent from the data collector to the GMLC.

[0128] Figure 4 The captured signaling flow (procedures A1 to A3) shows the path from the requesting entity (e.g., NWDAF or external NF) to the GMLC, to the AMF, and finally terminating at the LMF, forwarding the requestedPositioningModeAndMethod parameter. From the moment the LMF receives the location request, the LMF will use standardized methods as in TS37.355 to configure the gNodeB and UE to execute the location request, including but not limited to: configuring the gNodeB to send a Positioning Reference Symbol (PRS); configuring the UE to measure the PRS (e.g., RSRP, RSRPP, AoA, ToA, etc.); sending location assistance data to the UE; and collecting measurements and / or location estimates from the UE.

[0129] The third configuration aspect is described below. In the current implementation, there is no possibility of transmitting positioning measurements from the LMF to any other entity. Therefore, according to the third configuration aspect, in order to support data collection for AIML positioning, the response messages between the LMF and AMF, the AMF and GMLC, and the GMLC and the data collector (e.g., NWDAF or an external NF) are enhanced to carry positioning measurements. Figure 4 (Processes A4 to A6) illustrate the signaling flow that carries positioning measurements from the LMF to the data collector.

[0130] According to one embodiment of this configuration aspect, the measurement data and / or positioning estimate carried by the LPP location information message from the UE to the LMF can be transmitted back through the system using the encoded LPP message itself, since their structure is sufficient to carry the measurement data.

[0131] According to a second embodiment of this configuration aspect, the measurement data carried in the LPP providing location information message from the UE to the LMF can be transmitted back by the system in a new data structure inherent to the protocol used between the LMF and AMF, the AMF and GMLC, and the GMLC and the data collector (e.g., NWDAF).

[0132] Down Figure 6 The “Location Data” data structure is shown, with parts irrelevant to this example embodiment removed for brevity. This data structure is used by the Ngmlc interface to send responses to location requests and includes example options for the additional fields discussed. It should be noted that the exact structure used to carry location measurements, location configuration, or location assistance data is not defined; rather, examples of these that can be carried by existing interfaces are shown. The second embodiment for this configuration example shows an example of LPP-encoded message transmission that is the same as that used in the Nlmf interface specification in TS29.572, but it is used for a different purpose. For consistency, the same data structure is replicated. Figure 6 The illustration shows the addition of Ngmlc LocationData for the location response in TS29515_Ngmlc_Location.yaml from TS29.515 (v18.1.0). The addition is indicated in italics.

[0133] The fourth configuration aspect is described below. For model training, it may be necessary to know information about the configuration and any auxiliary data typically available to the UE via the LMF (such as Transmit Receive Point (TRP) information). Response messages from each of the involved entities (LMF; AMF; and GMLC) will be enhanced to transmit the configuration data and auxiliary data to the data collector. Figure 4 Procedures A4 to A6 illustrate the signaling flow from the LMF to the data collector, which carries configuration and / or auxiliary data related to positioning measurements.

[0134] In one embodiment of this configuration, the configuration and / or auxiliary data carried from the LMF to the UE in the LPP Request Location Information and LPP Provide Auxiliary Data messages can be transmitted back through the system using the encoded LPP message itself, as its structure is sufficient to carry the configuration and auxiliary data.

[0135] In a second embodiment of this configuration, the configuration and / or auxiliary data carried from the UE to the LMF in the LPP request location information and LPP provide auxiliary data messages can be transmitted back by the system in a new data structure inherent to the protocols used between the LMF and AMF, the AMF and GMLC, and the GMLC and data collectors (e.g., NWDAF or external NF).

[0136] In addition to the first two embodiments of this configuration aspect, configuration and / or auxiliary data will be associated with the collected data, and new configuration and / or auxiliary data will only be sent to the data collector (e.g., NWDAF or external NF) at the start of data collection and whenever the configuration and / or auxiliary data is changed.

[0137] Mapping the first embodiment of this configuration aspect to Figure 6 The first option (a) in the configuration, and by mapping the second embodiment of this configuration aspect to Figure 6 The second option (b) in the configuration aspect, an example implementation of the first two embodiments, can be related to... Figure 6 Related. However, these embodiments require transmission with Figure 6 The data shown is different from the data shown, so the following replacements were made: In order to capture the positioning configuration, the positionsMeasurementList of the first and second embodiments for this configuration was replaced by positionsConfigurationList; and in order to capture positioning assistance data, the positionsMeasurementList of the first and second embodiments for this configuration was replaced by positionsAssistanceDataList.

[0138] As before, the exact message name is not important; instead, it is new content added to the existing data structure that carries data between the entities in question. Additionally, the first and second embodiments of this configuration aspect can be further subdivided into location configuration embodiments and location auxiliary data embodiments, but for the sake of brevity, they will remain as is.

[0139] The following description provides further examples of the enhancements to the existing standardized data structures used between entities discussed in the above report, and demonstrates how requests can be forwarded from one entity to the next using a common data structure.

[0140] Specifically, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The requested location mode and method are shown separately to obtain the location information requested by Namf (in...). Figure 4 In process A2, the data is sent from the GMLC to the AMF) and the Nlmf location request (in... Figure 4 The addition of (from AMF to LMF in process A3).

[0141] Figure 7The image shows the addition of Namf RequestPosInfo for location requests in TS29.518_Namf_Location.yaml from TS29.518 (v18.2.0). Figure 8 The addition of Nlmf InputData for location requests is shown in TS29572_Nlmf_Location.yaml from TS29.572 (v18.1.0), where the addition is indicated by using italics.

[0142] As described above, according to some example embodiments, network functions (NFs) such as Network Data Analysis Functions (NWDAF) are enabled to perform data collection for AIML positioning. Specifically, to support the creation of AIML models for positioning by collecting measurement data in the network, the NF collects positioning-related physical layer measurements, including but not limited to Reference Symbol Received Power (RSRP), Reference Symbol Received Path Power (RSRPP), Angle of Arrival (AoA), and Time of Arrival (ToA), by configuring or requesting positioning modes and positioning methods using GMLC, and collects configuration / auxiliary data associated with these measurements.

[0143] Therefore, improved AIML data collection can be implemented according to some example embodiments.

[0144] The above example embodiments are merely examples and may be modified.

[0145] The names of network elements, protocols, and methods are based on the current standard. In other versions or other technologies, their names may differ, provided that these network elements and / or protocols and / or methods provide the corresponding functionality.

[0146] Typically, the example embodiments can be implemented by computer software stored in the memories (memory resources, memory circuitry) 12, 22, 32, and can be executed by the processor (processing resources, processing circuitry) 11, 21, 31 or by hardware, or by a combination of software and / or firmware and hardware.

[0147] The terms “connection,” “coupling,” or any variation thereof mean any connection or coupling (direct or indirect) between two or more elements, and may encompass the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are “connected” or “coupled” together. The coupling or connection between elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. As adopted herein, as a non-limiting example, two elements may be considered “connected” or “coupled” together by using one or more wires, cables, and printed electrical connections, and by using electromagnetic energy, such as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths located in the radio frequency region, microwave region, and light (both visible and invisible light) region.

[0148] Memory (memory resources, memory circuitry) 12, 22, 32 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed and removable memory, and non-transitory computer-readable media. Processor (processing resources, processing circuitry) 11, 21, 32 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and, by way of non-limiting example, can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), and processors based on multi-core processor architectures.

[0149] Furthermore, as used in this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuit systems) and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and

[0150] (ii) Any portion of a hardware processor (including a digital signal processor), software, and memory (including a plurality of) that works together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions and

[0151] (c) (Multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors (such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion of (multiple) microprocessors) that require software (e.g. firmware) to operate, but may be absent when operation is not required.

[0152] This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used in this application, the term circuit system also covers only hardware circuitry or a processor (or multiple processors) or portions of hardware circuitry or a processor, and its accompanying software and / or firmware implementation. For example, and if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuit system also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0153] As used in this article, the term “non-transient” refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signaling), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM).

[0154] It should be noted that, as used in this article, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”, means at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0155] It should be understood that the various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are merely illustrative and non-limiting, and are not intended to be construed as restrictive. Various modifications and applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: The device includes at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory comprising computer program code configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform at least the following: Generate a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; Send the request to the network element; as well as Receive a response from the network element, the response including location measurements and location-related information.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the information regarding which positioning process will be used includes: Information regarding the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect the positioning measurements.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The received positioning measurements include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and The received location-related information includes: Configuration data related to the measurement, and Auxiliary data related to the measurement.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the network element is a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, such that the apparatus further performs: The request is sent by inserting information based on the configured request into predefined fields of a location request message, the location request message being directed to an interface defined for the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), and / or The response is received in a predefined field of the message, which is defined for the interface of the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the apparatus comprises a location service (LCS) client.

7. An apparatus comprising: The device includes at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory comprising computer program code configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform at least the following: Receive a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; Based on the received request, the user equipment is configured to perform a positioning process and to obtain positioning measurements and positioning-related information. as well as In response to the request for collecting positioning measurements, a response is sent, the response including the acquired positioning measurements and the acquired positioning-related information.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the information regarding which positioning process is used includes: Information regarding the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect the positioning measurements.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The acquired positioning measurements include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and The location-related information obtained includes: Configuration data related to the measurement, and Auxiliary data related to the measurement.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the apparatus includes a location management function (LMF).

11. An apparatus comprising: The device includes at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory comprising computer program code configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform at least the following: Receive a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; The request, which includes information about which location process will be used, is forwarded to the network control element. In response to the forwarded request, receive location measurements and location-related information; as well as In response to the request for collecting positioning measurements, a response is sent, the response including the received positioning measurements and positioning-related information.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, such that the apparatus further performs: Receive the request for collecting location measurements from the network function; The request is forwarded to the Access and Mobility Function (AMF); The location measurement and location-related information are received from the Access and Mobility Function (AMF). as well as The response is sent to the network function, the response including the received location measurement.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatus comprises a Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC).

14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured together with the at least one processor such that the apparatus further performs: Receive a request from the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC) for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network; Forward the request to the location management function (LMF); Receive the positioning measurement and the positioning-related information from the location management function (LMF); as well as The response is sent to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), the response including the received location measurement and the location-related information.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the apparatus includes an Access and Mobility Function (AMF).

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The location measurements are collected for the purpose of training and / or validating an artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) model for determining the location estimate of the user equipment.

17. A method comprising: Generate a request for configuring and collecting location measurements from at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; Send the request to the network element; as well as Receive a response from the network element, the response including location measurements and location-related information.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the information regarding which positioning process will be used includes: Information regarding the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect the positioning measurements.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The received positioning measurements include positioning-related physical layer measurements; as well as The received location-related information includes: Configuration data related to the measurement, and Auxiliary data related to the measurement.

20. A method comprising: Receive a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; Based on the received request, the user equipment is configured to perform a positioning process and to obtain positioning measurements and positioning-related information. as well as In response to the request for collecting positioning measurements, a response is sent, the response including the acquired positioning measurements and the acquired positioning-related information.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the information regarding which positioning process will be used includes: Information regarding the positioning mode and / or method that will be used to collect the positioning measurements.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein, The acquired positioning measurements include positioning-related physical layer measurements, and The location-related information obtained includes: Configuration data related to the measurement, and Auxiliary data related to the measurement.

23. A method comprising: Receive a request for collecting location measurements of at least one user device in the network, the request including information about which location process will be used to collect the location measurements; The request, which includes information about which location process will be used, is forwarded to the network control element. In response to the forwarded request, receive location measurements and location-related information; as well as In response to the request for collecting positioning measurements, a response is sent, the response including the received positioning measurements and positioning-related information.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: Receive the request for collecting location measurements from the network function; The request is forwarded to the Access and Mobility Function (AMF); The location measurement and location-related information are received from the Access and Mobility Function (AMF). as well as The request is sent to the network function, the request including the received location measurement.

25. The method of claim 23, further comprising: Receive the request for collecting location measurements from the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC); Forward the request to the location management function (LMF); Receive the positioning measurement and the positioning-related information from the location management function (LMF); as well as The response is sent to the Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), the response including the received positioning measurement.

26. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 25, wherein, The location measurements are collected for the purpose of training and / or validating an artificial intelligence and machine learning (AIML) model for determining the location estimate of the user equipment.

27. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 17 to 26.

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