Monitoring efficiency of mobility procedures

Abstract

A method is disclosed that includes receiving, by a device, a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring an efficiency of a mobility procedure applied by the device; performing, by the apparatus, a measurement of time between at least two consecutive primary-secondary cell changes performed according to a mobility procedure; comparing, by the device, a result of the measurement with one or more criteria; and transmitting, by the apparatus, a message based on the comparison, the message comprising reports associated with at least two consecutive primary-secondary cell changes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following example embodiments relate to wireless communication. Background Technology

[0002] In wireless communication, suboptimal mobility processes can lead to unnecessary waste of network resources. Due to limited resources, it is necessary to optimize the use of network resources. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The scope of protection sought by the various example embodiments is defined by the claims. Example embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that are not within the scope of the claims should be interpreted as examples helpful in understanding the various embodiments.

[0004] According to one aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the apparatus; perform a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; compare the result of the measurement with one or more criteria; and send a message based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0005] According to another aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components for receiving a configuration of one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the apparatus; components for performing a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; components for comparing the measurement result with one or more criteria; and components for sending a message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes based on the comparison.

[0006] According to another aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving configuration by a device indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the device; performing a measurement by the device of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; comparing the measurement result by the device with one or more criteria; and sending a message by the device based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0007] According to another aspect, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a device, causes the device to at least: receive a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the device; perform a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; compare the result of the measurement with one or more criteria; and send a message based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0008] According to another aspect, a computer-readable medium including program instructions, when executed by a device, causes the device to at least: receive a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the device; perform a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; compare the result of the measurement with one or more criteria; and send a message based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0009] According to another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided comprising program instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: receive a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the device; perform a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; compare the result of the measurement with one or more criteria; and send a message based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0010] According to another aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: send a configuration to a user equipment, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and receive a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the user equipment generates the report based on one or more criteria.

[0011] According to another aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components for sending to a user equipment one or more criteria for indicative of the configuration of a mobility process applied by the user equipment; and components for receiving a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the report is generated by the user equipment based on one or more criteria.

[0012] According to another aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: sending a configuration to a user equipment indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and receiving a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the user equipment generates the report based on one or more criteria.

[0013] According to another aspect, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a device, causes the device to at least: send a configuration to a user equipment indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and receive a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the user equipment generates the report based on one or more criteria.

[0014] According to another aspect, a computer-readable medium including program instructions, when executed by a device, causes the device to at least: send a configuration to a user equipment indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and receive a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the user equipment generates the report based on one or more criteria.

[0015] According to another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided that includes program instructions, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: send a configuration to a user equipment indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and receive a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the user equipment generates the report based on one or more criteria. Attached Figure Description

[0016] In the following description, various exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An example of a wireless communication network is illustrated; Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication system is illustrated; Figure 3 The illustration shows a scenario where a user device is passing through several primary and secondary cells; Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the signal flow graph; Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the signal flow graph; Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the signal flow graph; Figure 7The diagram illustrates the signal flow graph; Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the signal flow graph; Figure 9 The flowchart is shown. Figure 10 The flowchart is shown. Figure 11 An example of the device is illustrated; Figure 12 An example of the device is illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The following embodiments are exemplary. Although the specification may refer to "an," "one," or "some" embodiments in several places in the text, this does not necessarily mean that each reference refers to the same embodiment(s) or that a particular feature applies only to a single embodiment. Individual features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0018] Some of the example embodiments described herein can be implemented in wireless communication networks, including radio access networks based on one or more of the following radio access technologies (RATs): Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or any other second-generation radio access technology, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS, 3G) based on Basic Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced, Fourth Generation (4G), Fifth Generation (5G), 5G New Radio (NR), Advanced 5G (i.e., 3GPP NR Rel-18 and later), or Sixth Generation (6G). Some examples of radio access networks include Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Radio Access Network (UTRAN), Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRA), or Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). The wireless communication network may also include a core network, and some example embodiments can also be applied to the network functions of the core network.

[0019] It should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to the wireless communication network given as an example, and those skilled in the art can apply the solution to other wireless communication networks or systems with the necessary characteristics. For example, some example embodiments can also be applied to communication systems based on the IEEE 802.11 standard or communication systems based on the IEEE 802.15 standard. IEEE is an abbreviation for the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

[0020] Figure 1 An example of a simplified wireless communication network is depicted, showing some physical and logical entities. Figure 1The connections shown can be physical or logical. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that wireless communication networks may also include, in addition to... Figure 1 Other physical and logical entities besides the physical and logical entities shown.

[0021] However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not limited to the wireless communication networks given as examples, but those skilled in the art can apply the embodiments described herein to other wireless communication networks with the necessary characteristics.

[0022] Figure 1 The example wireless communication network shown includes an access network (such as a radio access network (RAN)) and a core network 110.

[0023] Figure 1 User equipment (UEs) 100 and 102 are illustrated, configured to wirelessly connect to an access node (AN) 104 of an access network on one or more communication channels in a radio cell. AN 104 may be an evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB) providing the radio cell, a next-generation evolved NodeB (ng-eNB), or a next-generation NodeB (gNB or gNodeB). A wireless connection from the UE to the access node 104 (e.g., a radio link) may be referred to as an uplink (UL) or reverse link, while a wireless connection from the access node to the UE (e.g., a radio link) may be referred to as a downlink (DL) or forward link. UE 100 may also communicate directly with UE 102 via a wireless connection commonly referred to as a sidelink (SL), and vice versa. It should be understood that the access node 104, or its functionality, may be implemented using any entity suitable for providing such functionality, such as a node, host, server, or access point.

[0024] An access network may include more than one access node, in which case the access nodes may also be configured to communicate with each other via wired or wireless links. These links between access nodes may be used to send and receive control plane signaling, or to route data from one access node to another.

[0025] An access node may include a computing device configured to control the radio resources of the access node. An access node may also be referred to as a base station, base transceiver station (BTS), access point, cell site, radio access node, or any other type of node capable of wirelessly connecting to a UE (e.g., UE100, 102). An access node may include or be coupled to a transceiver. From the transceiver of the access node, a connection to an antenna element can be provided, which establishes a bidirectional radio link to UE 100, 102. The antenna element may include an antenna or antenna element, or multiple antennas or antenna elements.

[0026] Access node 104 can also connect to core network (CN) 110. Core network 110 may include an evolved packet core (EPC) network and / or a fifth-generation core network (5GC). EPC may include network entities such as a serving gateway (S-GW for routing and forwarding data packets), a packet data network gateway (P-GW) for providing UE connectivity to external packet data networks, and a mobility management entity (MME). 5GC may include one or more network functions such as at least one of the following: user plane function (UPF), access and mobility management function (AMF), location management function (LMF), and / or session management function (SMF).

[0027] The core network 110 can also communicate with or utilize services provided by one or more external networks 113, such as the public switched telephone network or the Internet. For example, in a 5G wireless communication network, the UPF of the core network 110 can be configured to communicate with an external data network via the N6 interface. In an LTE wireless communication network, the P-GW of the core network 110 can be configured to communicate with an external data network.

[0028] The UEs 100 and 102 shown are a type of device that can be allocated and assigned resources on an air interface. By way of a few names, UEs 100 and 102 may also be referred to as wireless communication devices, subscriber units, mobile stations, remote terminals, access terminals, user terminals, terminal equipment, or user equipment. The UE can be a computing device with or without a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), including but not limited to the following types of computing devices: mobile phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices, computing devices including wireless modems (e.g., alarm or measuring devices), laptop computers, desktop computers, tablet computers, game consoles, multimedia devices, redcap devices, wearable devices with wireless components (e.g., watches, headphones, or glasses), sensors including wireless modems, or any computing device including a wireless modem integrated into a vehicle.

[0029] It should be understood that a UE can also be a nearly exclusive uplink-only device, an example of which could be a camera or camcorder that loads images or video clips onto a network. A UE can also be a device capable of operating in an Internet of Things (IoT) network, a scenario where objects can be provided with the ability to transmit data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction. A UE can also leverage the cloud. In some applications, computation can be performed in the cloud or within another UE.

[0030] Wireless communication networks can also support the use of cloud services; for example, at least a portion of the core network operation can be performed as a cloud service (this is in...). Figure 1 (The middle is represented by "cloud" 114).

[0031] Wireless communication networks may also include a central control entity, such as a Network Management System (NMS) 111. NMS 111 is a centralized software and hardware suite for monitoring, controlling, and managing network infrastructure. NMS 111 handles a wide range of tasks, including fault management, configuration management, security management, performance management, and billing management. NMS 111 enables network operators to efficiently manage and optimize network resources to ensure high network performance, reliability, and security.

[0032] 5G enables the use of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas in access nodes 104 and / or UEs 100, 102, more base stations or access nodes than LTE networks (the so-called small cell concept), including macro sites operating in cooperation with smaller sites, and the use of various wireless technologies depending on service requirements, use cases, and / or available spectrum. 5G wireless communication networks can support a wide range of use cases and related applications, including video streaming, augmented reality, different data sharing methods, and various forms of machine-type applications such as (massive) machine-type communication (mMTC), including vehicle safety, various sensors, and real-time control.

[0033] In 5G wireless communication networks, access nodes and / or UEs can have multiple radio interfaces, namely sub-6GHz, cmWave, and mmWave, and can also be integrated with existing legacy radio access technologies such as LTE. For example, integration with LTE can be implemented as a system where LTE provides macro coverage, and 5G radio interface access can be aggregated to LTE from small cells. In other words, 5G wireless communication networks can support inter-RAT interoperability (such as LTE-5G) and inter-RI interoperability (inter-radio interface interoperability, such as sub-6GHz, cmWave, and mmWave). One concept considered for 5G wireless communication networks is network slicing, where multiple independent and dedicated virtual subnets (network instances) can be created within substantially the same infrastructure to run services with different requirements for latency, reliability, throughput, and mobility.

[0034] In some example embodiments, an access node (e.g., access node 104) may include: a radio unit (RU) comprising radio transceivers (TRXs), i.e., transmitters (Tx) and receivers (Rx); one or more distributed units (DUs) 105, which may be used for so-called Layer 1 (L1) processing and real-time Layer 2 (L2) processing; and a central unit (CU) 108 (also called a centralized unit), which may be used for non-real-time Layer 2 and Layer 3 (L3) processing. The CU 108 may, for example, be connected to one or more DUs 105 via an F1 interface. Such embodiments of an access node can centralize the CU relative to the cell site and the DU, while the DU can be more distributed and may even be retained at the cell site. The CU and DU together may also be referred to as a baseband or baseband unit (BBU). The CU and DU may also be included in a radio access point (RAP).

[0035] CU 108 can be a logical node that hosts the Radio Resource Control (RRC), Serving Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), and / or Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) of the access node's NR protocol stack. DU 105 can be a logical node that hosts the Radio Link Control (RLC), Media Access Control (MAC), and / or Physical (PHY) layers of the access node's NR protocol stack. The operation of the DU can be at least partially controlled by the CU. It should also be understood that the functional distribution between DU 105 and CU 108 can vary depending on the implementation. The CU may include a control plane (CU-CP), which can be a logical node that hosts the control plane portions of the RRC and PDCP protocols of the access node's NR protocol stack. The CU may also include a user plane (CU-UP), which can be a logical node that hosts the user plane portions of the PDCP protocol and the SDAP protocol of the access node's CU.

[0036] Cloud computing systems can also be used to provide CU 108 and / or DU 105. CUs provided by cloud computing systems can be called virtualized CUs (vCUs). In addition to vCUs, virtualized DUs (vDUs) provided by cloud computing systems can also exist. Furthermore, there can be a combination where DUs can be implemented on so-called bare-metal solutions, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or customer-specific standard product (CSSP) system-on-chips (SoCs).

[0037] By leveraging Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN), edge cloud can be introduced into the access network (e.g., RAN). Using edge cloud may mean that access node operations are performed at least partially in a computing system operatively coupled to the access node's Remote Radio Header (RRH) or Radio Unit (RU). Alternatively, access node operations may be performed on a distributed computing system or cloud computing system located at the access node. The application of cloud RAN architecture enables real-time RAN functions to be performed at the access network (e.g., in DU 105) and non-real-time functions to be performed in a centralized manner (e.g., in CU 108).

[0038] It should also be understood that, compared to LTE or 5G, the functional allocation between core network operations and access node operations may differ, or even cease to exist, in future wireless communication networks. Other technological advancements that may be available include big data and all-IP, which could potentially transform how wireless communication networks are built and managed. 5G (or New Radio, NR) wireless communication networks can support multiple hierarchical structures, where multi-access edge computing (MEC) servers can be placed between the core network 110 and access nodes 104. It should be understood that MEC can also be applied to LTE wireless communication networks.

[0039] 5G wireless communication networks (“5G networks”) may also include non-terrestrial communication networks, such as satellite communication networks, to enhance or supplement the coverage of 5G radio access networks. For example, satellite communication can support data transmission between the 5G radio access network and the core network, thereby enabling broader network coverage. Possible use cases could be providing service continuity for machine-to-machine (M2M) or Internet of Things (IoT) devices or for passengers on board vehicles, or ensuring the service availability of critical communications and future rail / maritime / aviation communications. Satellite communication can utilize geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite systems or low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, particularly mega-constellations (systems deploying hundreds of (nano) satellites). A given satellite 106 in a mega-constellation can cover the network entity of several enabling satellites that create a ground cell. The ground cell can be created by a ground relay access node or by an access node 104 located on the ground or in a satellite.

[0040] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that Figure 1The access node 104 shown is merely an example of a portion of an access network (e.g., a radio access network), and in practice, an access network may include multiple access nodes, UEs 100 and 102 may access multiple radio cells, and the access network may also include other devices, such as physical layer relay access nodes or other entities. At least one of the access nodes may be a home eNodeB or a home gNodeB. A home gNodeB or a home eNodeB is an access node that can be used to provide indoor coverage in a home, office, or other indoor environment.

[0041] Furthermore, within the geographical area of ​​the access network (e.g., the radio access network), multiple different types of radio cells and multiple radio cells can be provided. A radio cell can be a macrocell (or umbrella cell), which can be a large area with a diameter of up to tens of kilometers, or a smaller cell, such as a microcell, femtocell, or picocell. Figure 1 Multiple access nodes can provide any type of these cells. A cellular wireless network can be implemented as a multi-layered access network comprising several types of wireless cells. In a multi-layered access network, an access node can provide one or more wireless cells, and therefore providing such a multi-layered access network may require multiple access nodes.

[0042] To meet the need for improved access network performance, the concept of "plug-and-play" access nodes can be introduced. Besides the home eNodeB or home gNodeB, radio access networks capable of using "plug-and-play" access nodes can also include home node B gateways or HNB-GWs (Home Node B gateways or HNB-GWs). Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). An HNB-GW, which can be installed within an operator's access network, can aggregate services from a large number of home eNodeBs or home gNodeBs back to the operator's core network.

[0043] Figure 2 The illustrations show examples of wireless communication systems to which some exemplary embodiments can be applied. Figure 2 It can be understood as depicting Figure 1 It is part of a wireless communication network, but has higher accuracy for dual connectivity (DC).

[0044] At least a portion of the wireless communication system can be configured to enable dual connectivity. Dual connectivity allows the UE 100 to connect to two cell groups simultaneously: a primary cell group (MCG) 210 and a secondary cell group (SCG) 220. The two cell groups 210 and 220 can be associated with different access nodes 104A and 104B. The two cell groups 210 and 220 can be based on different radio access technologies (e.g., LTE and 5G), or they can both be based on the same radio access technology (e.g., 5G). In this document, the term "cell" refers to a wireless cell.

[0045] MCG 210 is a group of serving cells controlled by the master node (MN) 104A. The master node 104A is the RAN node that provides control plane connectivity to the core network 110. MCG 210 includes a primary cell (PCell) 211 (i.e., the primary serving cell of MCG 210) and optionally includes one or more secondary cells (SCells) 212. PCell 211 is a cell operating on a primary frequency that can be used for initial access under MCG 210. SCells are cells operating on secondary frequencies that can be configured after an RRC connection is established and can be used to provide additional radio resources.

[0046] SCG 220 is a group of serving cells controlled by secondary node (SN) 104B. Secondary node 104B is a RAN node that provides additional resources to UE 100. SCG 220 includes primary and secondary cells (PSCell) 221 (i.e., the primary serving cell of SCG 220) and optionally includes one or more SCells 222. PSCell 221 is the cell that can be used for initial access under SCG 220.

[0047] In NR Release 16, a conditional primary / secondary cell change (CPC) procedure was specified for intra-SN scenarios (i.e., a change to a target PSCell controlled by the same SN that also controls the source PSCell). This procedure distinguishes between MN-initiated CPCs and SN-initiated CPCs using different Signaling Resource Bearers (SRBs). If SRB3 is established, SN-initiated CPCs can be used; otherwise, reporting and signaling related to the cell change can be performed to the MN via SRB1. In NR Release 17, CPCs were extended for inter-SN scenarios (i.e., a change to a target PSCell controlled by a different SN than the source PSCell), where both MN-initiated and SN-initiated CPCs are present. The procedure to change the link to a different SN is performed by the MN. In the case of an SN-initiated CPC, if UE 100 is reporting to the SN via SRB3, the SN initiates the procedure using a request message. The signaling associated with SN-initiated inter-SN CPCs is described below.

[0048] As a first step, the source SN indicates to the MN the identifier (ID) of the target SN to be contacted in order to prepare multiple candidate target PSCells for CPC. The source SN proposes a list of multiple PSCells to be prepared by each target SN and provides CPC execution conditions for each proposed target PSCell. In other words, the CPC execution conditions are not forwarded to the target SN, but are sent to the UE by the MN using configuration messages. Furthermore, the source SN indicates the maximum number of PSCells that each target SN can prepare; that is, the actual number of prepared cells can be equal to or less than the maximum value of the proposed PSCell list.

[0049] The MN sends an Addition Request message to each target SN indicated by the source SN. The Addition Request includes a list of PSCells suggested by the source SN and the maximum number of PSCells that can be prepared.

[0050] The target SN selects from the suggested list of candidate target PSCells to prepare. The target SN cannot select a PSCell that is not included in the list.

[0051] The target SN sends the CPC configuration for each prepared target PSCell and the IDs of the prepared target PSCells to the MN.

[0052] The MN sends a conditional (re)configuration to the UE, which includes the CPC configuration of (multiple) candidate target PSCells and CPC execution conditions.

[0053] The UE sends a message to the MN to confirm the reception of the conditional reconfiguration, and the MN then confirms the SN change preparation to the source SN.

[0054] The MN sends a Change Confirm message to the source SN to indicate that the CPC is ready, and in this case, the source SN continues to provide user data to the UE.

[0055] The UE evaluates the CPC execution conditions of (multiple) prepared target PSCells.

[0056] When a PSCell candidate in target SN 1, for example, meets the CPC execution conditions, the UE sends a message to the MN instructing the execution of the CPC configuration. This message includes an embedded SN RRC reconfiguration complete message to target SN 1, which is sent by the MN to target SN 1. The UE then completes random access to the new target PSCell.

[0057] The signaling for MN-initiated inter-SN CPC is similar to that for SN-initiated inter-SN CPC, except that a first step is not required. In an MN-initiated CPC, the MN provides a list of PSCells to be prepared by the target SN and the maximum number of PSCells that the target SN can prepare in the SN add request. Furthermore, the MN configures the CPAC execution conditions for the prepared PSCells for the UE.

[0058] NR Release 18 introduced a process called Cell Group Selective Activation (SA). Cell Group Selective Activation is intended to support early preparation for future subsequent CPCs, and Release 18 initially focused on SCGs by reducing signaling overhead through pre-application of configurations. However, Cell Group Selective Activation is also expected to apply to cases where the cell group is an MCG (and an SCG). In the case of SA for an MCG, the UE can retain conditional handover configurations after a handover is performed and activate these configurations only for other cells.

[0059] Compared to CPC, SA does not release prepared potential candidate PSCells. After the PSCell change is completed, these PSCells can still be candidates from the perspective of the new source PSCell. In addition, the UE will not release the conditional configuration of other candidate PSCells for subsequent CPCs, as long as they are applicable to the new reference source PSCell.

[0060] Due to the small cell size and some expectation of UE movement, SA may offer benefits in terms of reduced signaling overhead, enabling rapid and continuous PSCell changes.

[0061] However, there is currently no available method to determine the efficiency of applied mobility procedures (e.g., CPC or SA) based on mobility performance, protocol resource waste, and signaling overhead. UE History Information (UHI) continuously records the time spent in a cell. However, UE History Information is not proactively reported and does not distinguish between different mobility procedures. Therefore, it is unclear from the reported UE History which mobility procedure was used. Furthermore, no other sufficiently relevant information is available in the UE History Information, such as the number of target cells reported. Therefore, UE History Information alone is insufficient.

[0062] The following uses Figure 3 Explain the advantages and disadvantages of CPC and SA. Figure 3 The illustration shows UE 100 passing through several PSCell221A, 221B, 221C, and 221D scenes.

[0063] exist Figure 3In the diagram, UE 100 moves along the trajectory indicated by the black arrow, and the UE is changing from single connectivity at point 301 to dual connectivity at point 302 through, for example, Conditional Primary / Secondary Cell Addition (CPA). Below, starting from point 303, the cell change is analyzed for two mobility procedures (i.e., CPC and SA).

[0064] For example, at point 303, the A3 event can be used for CPC or SA preparation triggered by the second PSCell 221B, and strong measurements by the third PSCell 221C and the fourth PSCell 221D.

[0065] For both CPC and SA, in order to prepare the second PSCell 221B, the third PSCell 221C, and the fourth PSCell 221D as potential candidate target cells, MN 104A sends SN Addition Request (ADDITION REQUEST) messages to the target SN(s) serving these PSCells 221B, 221C, and 221D. Through SN Addition Request ACK messages from the target SN(s), MN 104A receives all the information required for each target PSCell 221B, 221C, and 221D to access the cell, such as the Cell Radio Network Temporary Identifier (C-RNTI), the Security Algorithm Identifier, and the Dedicated Random Access Channel (RACH) preamble for Contention-Free Random Access (CFRA).

[0066] In the case of SA, the SN Add Request message from MN 104A to (multiple) target SNs may include information about other target candidate cells for parallel preparation, so that the required conditional configuration (condConfig) measurement settings can be provided to pre-configure UE 100.

[0067] For both CPC and SA, MN 104A configures UE 100 with an RRC reconfiguration message containing condConfig parameters for three envisioned target PSCells 221B, 221C, and 221D. For example, UE 100 can be configured with the following condConfig parameters: A3(P1->P2), A3(P1->P3), and A3(P1->P4).

[0068] A3(P1->P2) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the first PSCell 221A to the second PSCell 221B.

[0069] A3(P1->P3) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the first PSCell 221A to the third PSCell 221C.

[0070] A3(P1->P4) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the first PSCell 221A to the fourth PSCell 221D.

[0071] In the SA case, UE 100 can be configured with additional condConfig parameters, which can be provided along with SN add request ACKs from (multiple) target SNs to MN 104A: from the second PSCell 221B: A3(P2->P1), A3(P2->P3), A3(P2->P4); from the third PSCell 221C: A3(P3->P1), A3(P3->P2), A3(P3->P4); from the fourth PSCell 221D: A3(P4->P1), A3(P4->P2), A3(P4->P3). However, these additional condConfig parameters can be deactivated as long as UE 100 is connected to the first PSCell 221A.

[0072] A3(P2->P1) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the second PSCell 221B to the first PSCell 221A.

[0073] A3(P2->P3) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the second PSCell 221B to the third PSCell 221C.

[0074] A3(P2->P4) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the second PSCell 221B to the fourth PSCell 221D.

[0075] A3(P3->P1) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the third PSCell 221C to the first PSCell 221A.

[0076] A3(P3->P2) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the third PSCell 221C to the second PSCell 221B.

[0077] A3(P3->P4) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the third PSCell 221C to the fourth PSCell 221D.

[0078] A3(P4->P1) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the fourth PSCell 221D to the first PSCell 221A.

[0079] A3(P4->P2) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the fourth PSCell 221D to the second PSCell 221B.

[0080] A3(P4->P3) refers to the A3 event, which is configured to trigger a cell change from the fourth PSCell 221D to the third PSCell 221C.

[0081] At point 304, condConfig A3 (P1->P4) triggers synchronization (i.e., random access) between UE 100 and the fourth PSCell 221D (i.e., UE 100 performs handover autonomously).

[0082] In the CPC scenario, upon completion of the handover to the fourth PSCell 221D, preparation for the second PSCell 221B and the third PSCell 221C is released by sending an SgNB release request message, and UE 100 is newly configured with default measurements, which triggers another CPC preparation. At this time, no UE CPC executes condConfig. The advantage of releasing preparation is that it frees up resources blocked due to the preparation of unused target cells. However, the disadvantage is that preparation can be an obstacle to rapid subsequent cell changes, as UE 100 must undergo a preparation phase before another handover can be performed.

[0083] In the SA (Self-Controlled) scenario, upon completion of the handover to the fourth PSCell 221D, the preparation of the second PSCell 221B and the third PSCell 221C is retained, and the first PSCell 221A is prepared as a candidate target PSCell. UE 100 activates the condConfig for the fourth PSCell 221D: A3(P4->P1), A3(P4->P2), A3(P4->P3) for conditional autonomous handover execution, while deactivating the previous conditional execution criteria for the first PSCell 221A. The advantage of maintaining preparation is that immediate UE autonomous handover execution is possible for rapid subsequent cell changes. However, the disadvantage of maintaining preparation is that the resources of prepared and unused cells remain congested, and therefore UE memory usage is increased due to the numerous condConfig options and synchronization parameters for each candidate cell.

[0084] At point 305 (only needed for CPC, since SA is fully prepared), for example, event A3 is again used to trigger CPC preparation (here triggered by the third PSCell 221C), which includes a list of adjacent measurements to highlight another strong measurement of the second PSCell 221B, while the signal strength of the first PSCell 221A is low.

[0085] In the CPC scenario, to prepare a second PSCell 221B and a third PSCell 221C as potential candidate target cells, MN 104A sends SN Add Request messages to the target SN(s) serving these PSCells 221B and 221C. Using SN Add Request ACK messages from the target SN(s), MN 104A receives all the information required for access to each target cell, such as the C-RNTI, security algorithm identifier, and a dedicated RACH preamble for CFRA. MN 104A configures an RRC reconfiguration for UE100 with a synchronization message including the condConfig parameters for the two envisioned target cells 221B and 221C, namely A3(P4->P2) and A3(P4->P3).

[0086] At point 306, condConfig A3 (P4->P3) triggers synchronization (random access) (i.e., handover execution) between UE 100 and the third PSCell 221C. Depending on the speed of UE 100, the UE's secondary link can now be maintained for a period of time.

[0087] In the CPC scenario, upon completion of the handover to the third PSCell 221C, preparation for the second PSCell 221B is released by sending an SgNB release request message, and UE 100 is newly configured with default measurements for CPC preparation for potential candidate cells. No UE CPC executes condConfig at this time, but this should not be a problem if UE 100 remains in the third PSCell 221C for a period of time.

[0088] In the SA (Autonomous) scenario, as the handover to the third PSCell 221C is completed, preparations are made for the second PSCell 221B, the fourth PSCell 221D (and the first PSCell 221A). UE 100 activates another condConfig setting for the third PSCell 221C: A3(P3->P1), A3(P3->P2), A3(P3->P4) for CPC execution. The previous one for the fourth PSCell 221D is deactivated. If UE 100 remains in the third PSCell 221C for an extended period, the prolonged congestion of network resources required for autonomous handover execution to any neighboring cell becomes excessive.

[0089] For example, at point 307 (which is only needed for CPC because the fourth PSCell 221D is ready for SA), the fourth PSCell 221D triggers the A3 event for CPC preparation, while all other neighboring cells are fairly weak.

[0090] In the CPC scenario, only the fourth PSCell 221D is identified as a potential candidate target cell from the reported measurement list. Therefore, MN 104A sends SN Add Request messages to the target SN(s) serving the fourth PSCell 221D. Using the SN Add Request ACK message from the target SN, MN 104A receives all the information required for access to the target cell, such as the C-RNTI, security algorithm identifier, and a dedicated RACH preamble for CFRA. MN 104A configures an RRC reconfiguration for UE 100 with a synchronization message including the condConfig parameter of a hypothetical target cell, namely A3(P3->P4).

[0091] At point 308, condConfig A3 (P3->P4) triggers synchronization (random access) (i.e., handover execution) between UE 100 and the fourth PSCell 221D.

[0092] Based on the above (see points 305 and 307), compared to SA, CPC requires more signaling for UE measurement reports, inter-node signaling for preparation (e.g., SN add request), RRC reconfiguration messages for the UE, and SN release request messages after successful handover. On the other hand, CPC reduces network resource congestion compared to SA. For example, using SA, between points 306 and 308, the resources of all cells 221A, 221B, 221C, and 221D (including the unused second PSCell 221B) are congested for a considerable period.

[0093] The conclusion from the above scenario is that SA (Standalone) is only useful when there is a need to manage several rapid subsequent cell changes. However, there is currently no way to detect these deployment areas (cells or cell layouts) where SA can be a superior mobility process to CPC (and vice versa), because planning tools based on empirical propagation models cannot predict shadow fading and over-coverage in detail. Shadow fading indicates that the signal is attenuated by obstacles. On the other hand, other clutter types (such as water surfaces) can lead to attenuated propagation and so-called over-coverage.

[0094] In other words, a method is needed to monitor the performance of mobility processes in order to help apply the right mobility processes at the right place and at the right time.

[0095] Some example embodiments provide a method for using dual connectivity to monitor the efficiency of applied mobility procedures (e.g., CPC or SA) for PSCell changes in a UE. Some example embodiments may utilize one or more new measurement criteria that trigger information reporting, for example, to a RAN-based self-organizing network (SON) instance, which then uses this information to optimize the network so that each cell or cell group is configured with the best-performing and most efficient mobility procedure. In other words, the new measurement criteria allow determination of which mobility procedure (e.g., CPC or selective activation) is most effective for a specific cell boundary within the considered SCG (e.g., ...). Figure 3 The optimal PSCell combination is either between 221A and 221B or the entire group of PSCells within the SCG under consideration. One or more criteria can be defined in terms of minimizing the amount of control data to be transmitted and reducing network resource congestion due to unnecessary target cell preparation.

[0096] For example, a new standard could be applied to UEs configured for CPC procedures. This standard involves measuring the time between at least two consecutive (CPC-based) PSCell changes, and if the measurement time is shorter than a first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC"), the standard can trigger the recording of specific information. This recorded information can be reported to a network entity (e.g., a managed SON instance). At the network entity, a counter can be incremented for the cell boundary of these two consecutive PSCell changes, where the counter indicates that the two consecutive CPC-based cell changes are "consecutive and close," indicating that SA can be superior to CPC.

[0097] Another standard can be applied to UEs configured for SA procedures. This standard involves the measurement time between two consecutive (SA-based) PSCell changes, and if the measurement time is longer than a second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA"), the standard will trigger the recording of specific information. This recorded information can be reported to a network entity (e.g., a managed SON instance). At the network entity, a counter is incremented for the cell boundary between these two consecutive PSCell changes, where the counter indicates that these two consecutive SA-based cell changes are "wide-interval SAs," suggesting that SAs may waste network resources and CPCs would be more optimized because preparation time is not an issue in this case.

[0098] The counters can be statistically analyzed and used to update the mobility configuration related to the PSCell responsible for UE mobility configuration (e.g., through the RRC reconfiguration process). Therefore, after a period of time, each cell pair or even cell group can achieve optimal mobility configuration.

[0099] The following describes some example embodiments using the principles and terminology of 5G wireless access technology, but does not limit the example embodiments to 5G wireless access technology.

[0100] Figure 4 A signal flow diagram according to an example embodiment is illustrated.

[0101] refer to Figure 4 At 401, the master node (MN) 104A sends a configuration (e.g., via an RRC reconfiguration message) to the UE 100, which indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the UE 100. The UE 100 receives the configuration. For example, the configuration may include an "OtherConfig" information element, where a new information element (e.g., called "MMO-Monitor-Config") or a "SuccessHO-Config" information element may include one or more criteria.

[0102] UE 100 can be in RRC_CONNECTED state and operate in dual-connection mode.

[0103] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes. For example, the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes may refer to the time elapsed from the completion of random access (UL synchronization completion) of the current serving PSCell to the autonomous triggering execution (random access) of the next target PSCell, which is parameterized by condConfig.

[0104] A first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC") can be applied to a UE configured with CPC. If the measurement time is below the first threshold, the first threshold can represent the time span during which CPC is inefficient.

[0105] A second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA") can be applied to UEs configured with SA. If the measurement time exceeds the second threshold, the second threshold can represent the time span of SA inefficiency.

[0106] At 402, UE 100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100 according to the mobility procedure. For example, UE 100 may start a timer after the handover to the current serving cell (e.g., PSCell 221A) is completed and monitor the time until the next CPC or SA is performed to the new PSCell (e.g., PSCell 221B).

[0107] At 403, UE 100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0108] At 404, UE 100 sends a message to master node 104A based on this comparison. This message includes a report associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100. Master node 104A receives this message. In other words, UE 100 generates and sends this report based on one or more criteria (i.e., the configuration at 401). For example, the report may include a new report type called Mobility Approach Optimization (MMO) report. Alternatively, the report may be included in a Successful Handover Report (SHR) or Successful PSCell Change Report (SPR), which includes new information for MMO.

[0109] If the mobility process includes a CPC process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0110] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0111] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., ENUM {CPC consecutive close} or ENUM {SA with wider intervals}), the dwell time in the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., represented as an integer between 1 and 1023), the identifier of the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, the identifier of the target PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells of the source PSCell and / or the target PSCell. The integer between 1 and 1023 may refer to seconds (e.g., in the case of CPC) or minutes (e.g., in the case of SA).

[0112] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating a mobility procedure applied by UE 100 (e.g., ENUM{CPC} or ENUM{SA}). This information may indicate the mobility procedure explicitly or implicitly. For example, the reason ENUM may implicitly indicate the mobility procedure.

[0113] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the report may additionally include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of candidate target PSCells prepared during at least two consecutive PSCell changes (the higher the number, the greater the waste of network resources), or the number of subsequent (SA-based) cell changes after at least two consecutive PSCell changes, i.e., the additional number of hops already configured (this information can be used by the final SON decision when considering a series of PSCell changes).

[0114] At point 405, master node 104A sends the report to network entity 111, such as a network management system (NMS). Network entity 111 may host self-organizing network (SON) functionality.

[0115] At position 406, network entity 111 increments at least one counter based on the report.

[0116] For example, for a report indicating a CPC process and triggering cause as “CPC Continuous Tight”, the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., referred to as “Overly Tight Continuous CPS”).

[0117] As another example, for a report indicating an SA process and triggering cause "SA with a wide interval", the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., called "SA with an excessively wide interval").

[0118] At 407, network entity 111 (or SON function) determines, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility process applied by UE100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes.

[0119] At 408, based on the determined mobility change procedure, network entity 111 sends an indication to master node 104A to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for the cell boundary. Master node 104A receives the indication.

[0120] At 409, based on the instruction received from network entity 111, master node 104A reconfigures (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) UE 100 to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100. For example, master node 104A may reconfigure UE 100 to apply CPC instead of SA, and vice versa. Master node 104A may also configure one or more criteria (e.g., a first threshold or a second threshold) corresponding to the new mobility procedure for UE 100.

[0121] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a signal flow graph for MN-initiated reporting using distributed SON, according to an example embodiment.

[0122] refer to Figure 5 At point 501, the master node (MN) 104A sends a configuration (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) to the UE 100, which indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the UE 100. The UE 100 receives the configuration. For example, the configuration may include an "OtherConfig" information element, where a new information element (e.g., called "MMO-Monitor-Config") or a "SuccessHO-Config" information element may include one or more criteria.

[0123] UE 100 can be in RRC_CONNECTED state and operate in dual-connection mode.

[0124] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes. For example, the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes may refer to the time elapsed from the completion of random access (UL synchronization completion) of the current serving PSCell to the autonomous triggering execution (random access) of the next target PSCell, which is parameterized by condConfig.

[0125] A first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC") can be applied to a UE configured with CPC. If the measurement time is below the first threshold, the first threshold can represent the time span during which CPC is inefficient.

[0126] A second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA") can be applied to UEs configured with SA. If the measurement time exceeds the second threshold, the second threshold can represent the time span of SA inefficiency.

[0127] At 502, UE 100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100 according to the mobility procedure. For example, UE 100 may start a timer after the handover to the current serving cell is completed and monitor the time until the next CPC or SA is performed to the new PSCell.

[0128] At 503, UE 100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0129] At 504, UE 100 sends a message to master node 104A based on this comparison. This message includes a report associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100. Master node 104A receives this message. In other words, UE 100 generates and sends this report based on one or more criteria (i.e., the configuration at 501). For example, the report may include a new report type called Mobility Approach Optimization (MMO) report. Alternatively, the report may be included in a Successful Handover Report (SHR) or Successful PSCell Change Report (SPR), which includes new information for MMO.

[0130] If the mobility process includes a CPC process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0131] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0132] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., ENUM {CPC consecutive close} or ENUM {SA with wider intervals}), the dwell time in the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., represented as an integer between 1 and 1023), the identifier of the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, the identifier of the target PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells of the source PSCell and / or the target PSCell. The integer between 1 and 1023 may refer to seconds (e.g., in the case of CPC) or minutes (e.g., in the case of SA).

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating a mobility procedure applied by UE 100 (e.g., ENUM{CPC} or ENUM{SA}). This information may indicate the mobility procedure explicitly or implicitly. For example, the reason ENUM may implicitly indicate the mobility procedure.

[0134] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the report may additionally include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of candidate target PSCells prepared during at least two consecutive PSCell changes (the higher the number, the greater the waste of network resources), or the number of subsequent (SA-based) cell changes after at least two consecutive PSCell changes, i.e., the additional number of hops already configured (this information can be used by the final SON decision when considering a series of PSCell changes).

[0135] At position 505, master node 104A increments at least one counter based on this report. In other words, master node 104A creates and analyzes counter statistics for each PSCell boundary. Master node 104A can host self-organizing network (SON) functionality.

[0136] For example, for a report indicating a CPC process and triggering cause as “CPC Continuous Tight”, the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., referred to as “Overly Tight Continuous CPS”).

[0137] As another example, for a report indicating an SA process and triggering cause "SA with a wide interval", the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., called "SA with an excessively wide interval").

[0138] At point 506, the master node 104A (or SON function) determines, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility procedure applied by the UE 100 for a cell boundary associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes. In other words, this determination can be based on analysis of counter statistics for the cell boundary.

[0139] At point 507, based on this determination, master node 104A reconfigures (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) UE 100 to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100. For example, master node 104A may reconfigure UE 100 to apply CPC instead of SA, and vice versa. Master node 104A may also configure one or more criteria (e.g., a first threshold or a second threshold) for UE 100 corresponding to the new mobility procedure.

[0140] Figure 6 The diagram illustrates a signal flow graph for MN-initiated reporting using a centralized SON, according to an example embodiment.

[0141] refer to Figure 6At 601, the master node (MN) 104A sends a configuration (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) to the UE 100, which indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the UE 100. The UE 100 receives the configuration. For example, the configuration may include an “OtherConfig” information element, where a new information element (e.g., called “MMO-Monitor-Config”) or a “SuccessHO-Config” information element may include one or more criteria.

[0142] UE 100 can be in RRC_CONNECTED state and operate in dual-connection mode.

[0143] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes. For example, the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes may refer to the time elapsed from the completion of random access (UL synchronization completion) of the current serving PSCell to the autonomous triggering execution (random access) of the next target PSCell, which is parameterized by condConfig.

[0144] A first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC") can be applied to a UE configured with CPC. If the measurement time is below the first threshold, the first threshold can represent the time span during which CPC is inefficient.

[0145] A second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA") can be applied to UEs configured with SA. If the measurement time exceeds the second threshold, the second threshold can represent the time span of SA inefficiency.

[0146] At 602, UE 100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100 according to the mobility procedure. For example, UE 100 may start a timer after the handover to the current serving cell is completed and monitor the time until the next CPC or SA is performed to the new PSCell.

[0147] At 603, UE 100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0148] At 604, UE 100 sends a message to master node 104A based on this comparison. This message includes a report associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100. Master node 104A receives this message. In other words, UE 100 generates and sends this report based on one or more criteria (i.e., the configuration at 601). For example, the report may include a new report type called Mobility Approach Optimization (MMO) report. Alternatively, the report may be included in a Successful Handover Report (SHR) or Successful PSCell Change Report (SPR), which includes new information for MMO.

[0149] If the mobility process includes a CPC process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0150] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0151] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., ENUM {CPC consecutive close} or ENUM {SA with wider intervals}), the dwell time in the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., represented as an integer between 1 and 1023), the identifier of the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, the identifier of the target PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells of the source PSCell and / or the target PSCell. The integer between 1 and 1023 may refer to seconds (e.g., in the case of CPC) or minutes (e.g., in the case of SA).

[0152] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating a mobility procedure applied by UE 100 (e.g., ENUM{CPC} or ENUM{SA}). This information may indicate the mobility procedure explicitly or implicitly. For example, the reason ENUM may implicitly indicate the mobility procedure.

[0153] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the report may additionally include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of candidate target PSCells prepared during at least two consecutive PSCell changes (the higher the number, the greater the waste of network resources), or the number of subsequent (SA-based) cell changes after at least two consecutive PSCell changes, i.e., the additional number of hops already configured (this information can be used by the final SON decision when considering a series of PSCell changes).

[0154] At position 605, master node 104A increments at least one counter based on this report. In other words, master node 104A creates and analyzes counter statistics for each PSCell boundary.

[0155] For example, for a report indicating a CPC process and triggering cause as “CPC Continuous Tight”, the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., referred to as “Overly Tight Continuous CPS”).

[0156] As another example, for a report indicating an SA process and triggering cause "SA with a wide interval", the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., called "SA with an excessively wide interval").

[0157] At point 606, master node 104A sends information to network entity 111, such as network management system (NMS), indicating at least the value of one incremented counter. Network entity 111 may host self-organizing network (SON) functionality.

[0158] At 607, network entity 111 (or SON function) determines, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes. In other words, information sent by master node 104A causes network entity 111 to determine whether to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes.

[0159] At point 608, based on the determined mobility change procedure, network entity 111 sends an indication to master node 104A to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for the cell boundary. Master node 104A receives the indication.

[0160] At 609, based on the instruction received from network entity 111, master node 104A reconfigures (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) UE 100 to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100. For example, master node 104A may reconfigure UE 100 to apply CPC instead of SA, and vice versa. Master node 104A may also configure one or more criteria (e.g., a first threshold or a second threshold) corresponding to the new mobility procedure for UE 100.

[0161] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates a signal flow graph for SN-initiated reporting using distributed SON, according to an example embodiment.

[0162] refer to Figure 7At 701, the first secondary node (SN1) 104B sends a configuration (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) to the UE 100, which indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the UE 100. The UE 100 receives the configuration. For example, the configuration may include an "OtherConfig" information element, where a new information element (e.g., called "MMO-Monitor-Config") or a "SuccessHO-Config" information element may include one or more criteria.

[0163] UE 100 can be in RRC_CONNECTED state and operate in dual-connection mode.

[0164] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes. For example, the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes may refer to the time elapsed from the completion of random access (UL synchronization completion) of the current serving PSCell to the autonomous triggering execution (random access) of the next target PSCell, which is parameterized by condConfig.

[0165] A first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC") can be applied to a UE configured with CPC. If the measurement time is below the first threshold, the first threshold can represent the time span during which CPC is inefficient.

[0166] A second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA") can be applied to UEs configured with SA. If the measurement time exceeds the second threshold, the second threshold can represent the time span of SA inefficiency.

[0167] At 702, UE 100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100, based on the mobility procedure. For example, UE 100 may start a timer after the handover to the current serving cell is completed and monitor the time until the next CPC or SA is performed to the new PSCell.

[0168] At 703, UE 100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0169] At 704, UE 100 sends a message to the second auxiliary node (SN2) 104C based on this comparison. This message includes a report associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100. The second auxiliary node 104C receives this message. In other words, UE 100 generates and sends this report based on one or more criteria (i.e., the configuration at 701). For example, the report may include a new report type called a Mobility Approach Optimization (MMO) report. Alternatively, the report may be included in a Successful Handover Report (SHR) or a Successful PSCell Change Report (SPR), which includes new information for MMO.

[0170] In this article, the terms "first auxiliary node" and "second auxiliary node" are used to distinguish auxiliary nodes, and they do not necessarily represent a specific identifier or a specific order of auxiliary nodes.

[0171] If the mobility process includes a CPC process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0172] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0173] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., ENUM {CPC consecutive close} or ENUM {SA with wider intervals}), the dwell time in the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., represented as an integer between 1 and 1023), the identifier of the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, the identifier of the target PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells of the source PSCell and / or the target PSCell. The integer between 1 and 1023 may refer to seconds (e.g., in the case of CPC) or minutes (e.g., in the case of SA).

[0174] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating a mobility procedure applied by UE 100 (e.g., ENUM{CPC} or ENUM{SA}). This information may indicate the mobility procedure explicitly or implicitly. For example, the reason ENUM may implicitly indicate the mobility procedure.

[0175] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the report may additionally include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of candidate target PSCells prepared during at least two consecutive PSCell changes (the higher the number, the greater the waste of network resources), or the number of subsequent (SA-based) cell changes after at least two consecutive PSCell changes, i.e., the additional number of hops already configured (this information can be used by the final SON decision when considering a series of PSCell changes).

[0176] At point 705, the second auxiliary node 104C sends or forwards the report to the first auxiliary node 104B. For example, the report may be forwarded in an access and mobility indication.

[0177] At point 706, the first auxiliary node 104B increments at least one counter based on this report. In other words, the first auxiliary node 104B creates and analyzes counter statistics for each PSCell boundary. The first auxiliary node 104B can host self-organizing network (SON) functionality.

[0178] For example, for a report indicating a CPC process and triggering cause as “CPC Continuous Tight”, the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., referred to as “Overly Tight Continuous CPS”).

[0179] As another example, for a report indicating an SA process and triggering cause "SA with a wide interval", the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., called "SA with an excessively wide interval").

[0180] At 707, the first auxiliary node 104B (or SON function) determines, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility procedure applied by UE100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes. In other words, this determination can be based on analysis of counter statistics for cell boundaries.

[0181] At point 708, based on this determination, the first secondary node 104B reconfigures (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) UE 100 to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100. For example, the first secondary node 104B may reconfigure UE 100 to apply CPC instead of SA, and vice versa. The first secondary node 104B may also configure one or more criteria (e.g., a first threshold or a second threshold) corresponding to the new mobility procedure for UE 100.

[0182] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a signal flow graph for SN-initiated reporting using a centralized SON, according to an example embodiment.

[0183] refer to Figure 8At 801, the first secondary node (SN1) 104B sends a configuration (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) to the UE 100, which indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the UE 100. The UE 100 receives the configuration. For example, the configuration may include an "OtherConfig" information element, where a new information element (e.g., called "MMO-Monitor-Config") or a "SuccessHO-Config" information element may include one or more criteria.

[0184] UE 100 can be in RRC_CONNECTED state and operate in dual-connection mode.

[0185] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes. For example, the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes may refer to the time elapsed from the completion of random access (UL synchronization completion) of the current serving PSCell to the autonomous triggering execution (random access) of the next target PSCell, which is parameterized by condConfig.

[0186] A first threshold (e.g., called "threshold_min_consecutive_CPC") can be applied to a UE configured with CPC. If the measurement time is below the first threshold, the first threshold can represent the time span during which CPC is inefficient.

[0187] A second threshold (e.g., called "threshold_max_consecutive_SA") can be applied to UEs configured with SA. If the measurement time exceeds the second threshold, the second threshold can represent the time span of SA inefficiency.

[0188] At 802, UE 100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100 according to the mobility procedure.

[0189] At 803, UE 100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0190] At 804, UE 100 sends a message to the second auxiliary node (SN2) 104C based on this comparison. This message includes a report associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes performed by UE 100. The second auxiliary node 104C receives this message. In other words, UE 100 generates and sends this report based on one or more criteria (i.e., the configuration at 801). For example, the report may include a new report type called a Mobility Approach Optimization (MMO) report. Alternatively, the report may be included in a Successful Handover Report (SHR) or a Successful PSCell Change Report (SPR), which includes new information for MMO.

[0191] In this article, the terms "first auxiliary node" and "second auxiliary node" are used to distinguish auxiliary nodes, and they do not necessarily represent a specific identifier or a specific order of auxiliary nodes.

[0192] If the mobility process includes a CPC process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0193] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0194] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., ENUM {CPC consecutive close} or ENUM {SA with wider intervals}), the dwell time in the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes (e.g., represented as an integer between 1 and 1023), the identifier of the source PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, the identifier of the target PSCell of at least two consecutive PSCell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells of the source PSCell and / or the target PSCell. The integer between 1 and 1023 may refer to seconds (e.g., in the case of CPC) or minutes (e.g., in the case of SA).

[0195] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating a mobility procedure applied by UE 100 (e.g., ENUM{CPC} or ENUM{SA}). This information may indicate the mobility procedure explicitly or implicitly. For example, the reason ENUM may implicitly indicate the mobility procedure.

[0196] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, the report may additionally include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of candidate target PSCells prepared during at least two consecutive PSCell changes (the higher the number, the greater the waste of network resources), or the number of subsequent (SA-based) cell changes after at least two consecutive PSCell changes, i.e., the additional number of hops already configured (this information can be used by the final SON decision when considering a series of PSCell changes).

[0197] At point 805, the second auxiliary node 104C sends or forwards the report to the first auxiliary node 104B. For example, the report may be forwarded in an access and mobility indication.

[0198] At point 806, the first auxiliary node 104B increments at least one counter based on this report. In other words, the first auxiliary node 104B creates and analyzes counter statistics for each PSCell boundary.

[0199] For example, for a report indicating a CPC process and triggering cause as “CPC Continuous Tight”, the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., referred to as “Overly Tight Continuous CPS”).

[0200] As another example, for a report indicating an SA process and triggering cause "SA with a wide interval", the corresponding counter can be incremented (e.g., called "SA with an excessively wide interval").

[0201] At point 807, the first auxiliary node 104B sends information to network entity 111, such as a network management system (NMS), indicating at least the value of one incremented counter. Network entity 111 may host self-organizing network (SON) functionality.

[0202] At 808, network entity 111 (or SON function) determines, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes. In other words, information sent by the first secondary node 104B causes network entity 111 to determine whether to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two consecutive PSCell changes.

[0203] At point 809, based on the determined mobility change procedure, network entity 111 sends an indication to first secondary node 104B for changing the mobility procedure applied by UE 100 for the cell boundary. First secondary node 104B receives the indication.

[0204] At point 810, based on the instruction received from network entity 111, the first secondary node 104B reconfigures (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration) UE 100 to change the mobility procedure applied by UE 100. For example, the first secondary node 104B may reconfigure UE 100 to apply CPC instead of SA, and vice versa. The first secondary node 104B may also configure one or more criteria (e.g., a first threshold or a second threshold) corresponding to the new mobility procedure for UE 100.

[0205] Figure 9 The illustration shows the method according to the example embodiment. Figure 11 The flowchart depicts the method performed by device 1100. For example, device 1100 may be, or include, user equipment (UE) 100, 102, or be included in or incorporated by the UE. Device 1100 may be in a dual-connectivity mode with two or more network nodes.

[0206] refer to Figure 9 In block 901, device 1100 receives one or more standard configurations instructing the monitoring of the efficiency of mobility processes applied by device 1100. For example, this configuration may be received from either master node 104A or slave node 104B.

[0207] In block 902, device 1100 performs a measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process.

[0208] In box 903, device 1100 compares the measurement results with one or more standards.

[0209] In block 904, if one or more criteria are met based on the comparison (block 903: Yes), device 1100 sends a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes. For example, this message may be sent to primary node 104A or secondary node 104B.

[0210] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes.

[0211] If the mobility process includes a conditional primary / secondary cell change (CPC) process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold.

[0212] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation (SA) process, the message can be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold.

[0213] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the dwell time in the source primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the identifier of the source primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the identifier of the target primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells.

[0214] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating the mobility process applied by device 1100.

[0215] Alternatively or otherwise (e.g., where the mobility process includes SA), the report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of ready candidate primary / secondary cells during at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, or the number of subsequent cell changes after at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0216] In block 905, if one or more criteria are not met based on the comparison (block 903: No), device 1100 does not send a message including the report.

[0217] For example, if the mobility process includes a conditional primary / secondary cell change (CPC) process, then if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than or equal to a first threshold, the message may not be sent.

[0218] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation (SA) process, then the message may not be sent if the result measured based on the comparison is below or equal to a second threshold.

[0219] Figure 10 The illustration shows the method according to the example embodiment. Figure 12 The flowchart illustrates the method performed by the device 1200. For example, the device 1200 may be a network node 104 of a wireless access network (such as a primary node 104A or a secondary node 104B, 104C), or include the network node, or be included in the network node.

[0220] refer to Figure 10 In block 1001, device 1200 sends a configuration to user equipment 100 that indicates one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by user equipment 100.

[0221] In block 1002, device 1200 receives a message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by user equipment 100, wherein user equipment 100 generates and / or sends the report based on one or more criteria. Device 1200 may receive the message from user equipment 100 or another network node (e.g., secondary node 104B or 104C).

[0222] One or more criteria may include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes.

[0223] If the mobility process includes a conditional primary / secondary cell change (CPC) process, then if the result measured based on the comparison is below a first threshold, the configuration may instruct the user equipment 100 to send the message.

[0224] If the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation (SA) process, then if the result measured based on the comparison is higher than a second threshold, the configuration may instruct the user equipment 100 to send the message.

[0225] The report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the reason for at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the dwell time in the source primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the identifier of the source primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, the identifier of the target primary / secondary cell of at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, or one or more radio measurements of one or more neighboring cells.

[0226] Alternatively or additionally, the report may include information indicating mobility processes applied by user equipment 100.

[0227] Alternatively or otherwise (e.g., where the mobility process includes SA), the report may include information indicating at least one of the following: the number of ready candidate primary / secondary cells during at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, or the number of subsequent cell changes after at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

[0228] Device 1200 can send the report to the Self-Organizing Network (SON) function, which can be hosted in device 1200 or another network entity 111.

[0229] If the SON function is hosted in device 1200, device 1200 may increment at least one counter based on the report; and determine, based on at least one counter, whether to change the mobility process applied by user equipment 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two primary and secondary cell changes.

[0230] If the SON function is hosted in another network entity 111, the device 1200 may increment at least one counter based on the report; and send information to the network entity 111 indicating at least the value of the incremented at least one counter, wherein the information enables the network entity 111 (or the SON function) to determine whether to change the mobility process applied by the user equipment 100 for cell boundaries associated with at least two primary and secondary cell changes.

[0231] Device 1200 can receive instructions from network entity 111 to change the mobility procedures applied by user equipment 100 for cell boundaries. Device 1200 can reconfigure user equipment 100 accordingly.

[0232] The above is made with the help of Figures 4-10 The described boxes, related functions, and information exchanges (messages) are not in an absolute chronological order, and some of them may occur simultaneously or in a different order than described. Other functions may also be executed between or within them, and other information may be sent, and / or other rules may be applied. Some boxes or portions of boxes, or one or more messages, may also be omitted or replaced with the corresponding box or portion of boxes, or one or more messages.

[0233] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording (where a list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) means at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0234] Figure 11 An example of an apparatus 1100 including components for performing one or more of the exemplary embodiments described above is illustrated. For example, apparatus 1100 may be an apparatus such as user equipment (UE) 100, 102, etc., or an apparatus including the UE, or an apparatus included in the UE. User equipment may also be referred to as wireless communication equipment, subscriber unit, mobile station, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, terminal equipment, or user equipment.

[0235] Apparatus 1100 may include a circuit system or chipset suitable for implementing one or more of the example embodiments described above. For example, apparatus 1100 may include at least one processor 1110. At least one processor 1110 interprets instructions (e.g., computer program instructions) and processes data. At least one processor 1110 may include one or more programmable processors. At least one processor 1110 may include programmable hardware with embedded firmware, and alternatively or additionally may include one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0236] At least one processor 1110 is coupled to at least one memory 1120. The at least one processor is configured to write data to and read data from the at least one memory 1120. The at least one memory 1120 may include one or more memory cells. Memory cells may be volatile or non-volatile. It should be noted that one or more non-volatile memory cells and one or more volatile memory cells may be present, or alternatively, one or more non-volatile memory cells may be present, or alternatively, one or more volatile memory cells may be present. Volatile memory may be, for example, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM). Non-volatile memory may be, for example, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices. Generally, memory may be referred to as a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term "non-transitory" as used herein refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM). At least one memory 1120 stores computer-readable instructions that are executed by at least one processor 1110 to perform one or more of the example embodiments described above. For example, non-volatile memory stores computer-readable instructions, and at least one processor 1110 uses volatile memory for temporarily storing data and / or instructions to execute instructions. Computer-readable instructions may refer to computer program code.

[0237] Computer-readable instructions may have been pre-stored in at least one memory 1120, or alternatively or additionally, they may be received by the device via an electromagnetic carrier signal, and / or copied from a physical entity such as a computer program product. Execution of the computer-readable instructions by at least one processor 1110 causes the device 1100 to perform one or more of the above-described example embodiments. That is, at least one processor storing the instructions and at least one memory can provide components for providing or causing execution of any of the above methods and / or blocks.

[0238] In the context of this document, "memory" or "a computer-readable medium" or "a plurality of computer-readable media" can be any one or more nontransitory media or components that can contain, store, transmit, propagate, or transfer instructions for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer. The term "nontransitory" as used herein is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), not a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM).

[0239] Device 1100 may also include or be connected to input unit 1130. Input unit 1130 may include one or more interfaces for receiving input. The one or more interfaces may include, for example, one or more temperature, motion and / or orientation sensors, one or more cameras, one or more accelerometers, one or more microphones, one or more buttons and / or one or more touch detection units. In addition, input unit 1130 may include interfaces to which external devices can be connected.

[0240] The device 1100 may also include an output unit 1140. The output unit may include or be connected to one or more displays capable of displaying visual content, such as a light-emitting diode (LED) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), and / or a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display. The output unit 1140 may also include one or more audio outputs. The one or more audio outputs may be, for example, speakers.

[0241] Device 1100 also includes a connection unit 1150. Connection unit 1150 enables wireless connectivity to one or more external devices. Connection unit 1150 includes at least one transmitter and at least one receiver, which may be integrated into device 1100 or connected to the transmitter and receiver. The at least one transmitter includes at least one transmitting antenna, and the at least one receiver includes at least one receiving antenna. Connection unit 1150 may include an integrated circuit or a set of integrated circuits providing wireless communication capabilities to device 1100. Alternatively, the wireless connection may be a hardwired application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Connection unit 1150 may also provide components for performing at least some of the blocks or functions of one or more of the example embodiments described above. Connection unit 1150 may include one or more components controlled by a corresponding control unit, such as a power amplifier, digital front-end (DFE), analog-to-digital converter (ADC), digital-to-analog converter (DAC), frequency converter, modulator (demodulator), and / or encoder / decoder circuitry.

[0242] Processor 1110 is configured to cause device 1100 to perform Figures 4 to 10and the embodiments explained in the description. For example, processor 1110 causes device 1100 to receive via connection unit 1150. Figures 4 to 10 The processor 1110 is configured to receive at least one message (e.g., configuration and / or reconfiguration) or send at least one message (e.g., report). Furthermore, the processor 1110 is configured to perform time measurement and comparison based on parameters and / or instructions stored in memory 1120 or at least one message received via connection unit 1150.

[0243] It should be noted that device 1100 may also include Figure 11 Various components are not shown. These components can be hardware components and / or software components.

[0244] Figure 12 An example of an apparatus 1200 including components for performing one or more of the example embodiments described above is illustrated. For example, apparatus 1200 may be an apparatus such as a network node 104 of a wireless access network (such as a primary node 104A or a secondary node 104B, 104C), or an apparatus including the network node, or an apparatus included in the network node.

[0245] For example, a network node can also be called a network element, a radio access network (RAN) node, a next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) node, a NodeB, an eNB, a gNB, a base transceiver station (BTS), a base station, an NR base station, a 5G base station, an access node, an access point (AP), a cell site, a relay node, a repeater, an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, an IAB donor node, a distributed unit (DU), a central unit (CU), a baseband unit (BBU), a radio unit (RU), a radio head, a remote radio head (RRH), or a transmit and receive point (TRP).

[0246] Apparatus 1200 may include, for example, a circuit system or chipset suitable for implementing one or more of the example embodiments described above. Apparatus 1200 may be an electronic device including one or more electronic circuit systems. Apparatus 1200 may include a communication control circuit system 1210 (such as at least one processor) and at least one memory 1220 storing instructions 1222 that, when executed by at least one processor, cause apparatus 1200 to perform one or more of the example embodiments described above. For example, such instructions 1222 may include computer program code (software). At least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions may provide components for providing or causing execution of any of the methods and / or blocks described above.

[0247] The processor is coupled to memory 1220. The processor is configured to read data from and write data to memory 1220. Memory 1220 may include one or more memory cells. Memory cells may be volatile or non-volatile. It should be noted that one or more non-volatile memory cells and one or more volatile memory cells may be present, or alternatively, one or more non-volatile memory cells or one or more volatile memory cells may be present. Volatile memory may be, for example, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM). Non-volatile memory may be, for example, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, optical storage device, or magnetic storage device. Generally, memory may be referred to as a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term "non-transitory" as used herein is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM). Memory 1220 stores computer-readable instructions that are executed by the processor. For example, non-volatile memory stores computer-readable instructions, while the processor uses volatile memory for temporary storage of data and / or instructions to execute instructions.

[0248] The computer-readable instructions may have been pre-stored in memory 1220, or alternatively or additionally, they may be received by the device via an electromagnetic carrier signal, and / or copied from a physical entity such as a computer program product. Execution of the computer-readable instructions causes device 1200 to perform one or more of the functions described above.

[0249] The memory 1220 can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and / or removable memory. The memory may include a configuration database for storing configuration data, such as a current list of neighboring cells, and, in some example embodiments, the structure of frames used in detected neighboring cells.

[0250] Device 1200 may also include or be connected to communication interface 1230, such as a wireless unit, which includes hardware and / or software for establishing a communication connection with one or more wireless communication devices according to one or more communication protocols. Communication interface 1230 includes at least one transmitter (Tx) and at least one receiver (Rx), which may be integrated into device 1200 or connected to it. Communication interface 1230 may provide components for performing some of the blocks of the above-described example embodiments. Communication interface 1230 may include one or more components controlled by a corresponding control unit, such as a power amplifier, digital front end (DFE), analog-to-digital converter (ADC), digital-to-analog converter (DAC), frequency converter, modulator (demodulator), and / or encoder / decoder circuitry.

[0251] Communication interface 1230 provides the device with wireless communication capabilities to communicate in a wireless communication network. For example, the communication interface may provide a wireless interface to one or more UEs 100, 102. Device 1200 may also include or be connected to another interface toward core network 110, such as a network coordinator device or AMF, and / or include or be connected to access nodes 104, 104A, 104B, 104C of the wireless communication network.

[0252] The device 1200 may also include a scheduler 1240 configured to allocate radio resources. The scheduler 1240 may be configured together with the communication control circuitry system 1210 or separately.

[0253] It should be noted that device 1200 may also include Figure 12 Various components are not shown. These various components can be hardware components and / or software components.

[0254] As used in this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more or all of the following: a) a hardware circuit implementation only (such as an implementation only in analog and / or digital circuit systems); and b) a combination of hardware circuits and software, such as (if applicable): i) a combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, and (multiple) hardware processors having software (including (multiple) digital signal processors, software, and any part of (multiple) memories, which work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone) to perform various functions); and c) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion thereof, which require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may be absent when the software is not required to operate.

[0255] 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 a portion of hardware circuitry or a processor (or processors), or a part of hardware circuitry or processing, and its accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, 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.

[0256] The control circuit system 1210 is configured to cause the device 1200 to perform Figures 4 to 10 and the embodiments explained in the description. For example, the control circuitry 1210 causes the device 1200 to transmit via the communication interface Tx / Rx unit 1230. Figures 4 to 10 The system receives at least one message (e.g., configuration and / or reconfiguration) or receives at least one message (e.g., report). Furthermore, the control circuitry 1210 is configured to increment or decrement a counter and / or determine whether to alter the mobility process based on reports received from the user equipment 100.

[0257] The techniques and methods described herein can be implemented in various ways. For example, these techniques can be implemented in hardware (one or more devices), firmware (one or more devices), software (one or more modules), or a combination thereof. For hardware implementation, the apparatus(s) of the example embodiments can be implemented within one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), graphics processing units (GPUs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, or a combination thereof. For firmware or software, implementation can be achieved by modules (e.g., processes, functions, etc.) of at least one chipset that perform the functions described herein. Software code can be stored in memory cells and executed by a processor. Memory cells can be implemented within the processor or external to the processor. In the latter case, as is known in the art, memory cells can be communicatively coupled to the processor in various ways. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the components of the systems described herein can be rearranged and / or supplemented by additional components to facilitate, for example, the implementation of the various aspects described herein, and they are not limited to the precise configurations illustrated in the given figures.

[0258] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, with advancements in technology, the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways within the scope of the claims. Embodiments are not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above, but can vary within the scope of the claims. Therefore, all words and expressions should be interpreted broadly, and they are intended to illustrate rather than limit the embodiments.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: Receive configuration, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the device; Measure the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility procedure; The results of the measurement are compared with one or more of the standards; as well as A message is sent based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more criteria include at least one of a first threshold or a second threshold for the time between the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mobility process includes a conditional primary / secondary cell change process, and If the result based on the comparison is lower than the first threshold, then the message is sent.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mobility process includes a cell group selective activation process, and If the result based on the comparison is higher than the second threshold, then the message is sent.

5. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the report includes information indicating at least one of the following: The reasons for at least two consecutive changes in primary and secondary cells. The time spent in the source primary and secondary cells during the at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes. The identifier of the source primary and secondary cell that has been changed at least twice consecutively. The identifier of the target primary and secondary cell that has undergone at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes, or One or more wireless measurements from one or more neighboring cells.

6. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the report includes information indicating the mobility process applied by the apparatus.

7. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the report includes information indicating at least one of the following: The number of candidate primary and secondary cells ready during at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes, or The number of subsequent cell changes following at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes.

8. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: Sending a configuration to the user equipment, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and Receive a message, the message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the report is generated by the user equipment based on the one or more criteria.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising: Send the report to the self-organizing network function.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 9, further comprising: Increment at least one counter based on the report; and The mobility process applied by the user equipment for cell boundaries associated with the at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes is determined based on the at least one counter.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 9, further comprising: Increment at least one counter based on the report; and Send information to the network entity indicating at least the value of the incremented at least one counter. The information provided enables the network entity to determine whether to modify the mobility process applied by the user equipment for cell boundaries associated with the at least two consecutive primary and secondary cell changes.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: Receive from the network entity an instruction to modify the mobility process applied by the user equipment toward the cell boundary.

13. An apparatus comprising: Components for receiving one or more standard configurations that indicate the efficiency of a mobility process applied by the device; A component for measuring the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; Components for comparing the results of the measurement with the one or more standards; as well as A component for sending a message, including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes, based on the comparison.

14. An apparatus comprising: Components for sending instructions to a user equipment for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; as well as A component for receiving messages including reports associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the reports are generated by the user equipment based on one or more criteria.

15. A method comprising: The device receives a configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the device. The device performs the measurement of the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility process; The device compares the measurement result with one or more standards; as well as The device sends a message based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

16. A method comprising: Send a configuration to the user equipment, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; as well as Receive a message, the message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the report is generated by the user equipment based on the one or more criteria.

17. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following: Receive configuration, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the device; Measure the time between at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed according to the mobility procedure; The results of the measurement are compared with one or more of the standards; as well as A message is sent based on the comparison, the message including a report associated with the at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following: Sending a configuration to the user equipment, the configuration indicating one or more criteria for monitoring the efficiency of mobility processes applied by the user equipment; and Receive a message, the message including a report associated with at least two consecutive primary / secondary cell changes performed by the user equipment, wherein the report is generated by the user equipment based on the one or more criteria.

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