Apparatus and method for network device

Abstract

An apparatus for a network device, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive an indication from another network device indicating to request first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information comprising a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device, transmit a request for the first information to the terminal device, receive a response comprising the first information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example embodiments relate to an apparatus for a network device.

[0002] Another example embodiment relates to a method for a network device.

[0003] Another example embodiment relates to an apparatus for a terminal device.

[0004] Another example embodiment relates to a method for a terminal device. Background Technology

[0005] A communication system (e.g., a wireless communication system) can be used for the wireless exchange of information between two or more entities, which may include, for example, one or more terminal devices (e.g., user equipment (UE)) and one or more network devices (e.g., base stations). Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are set forth in the independent claims. Exemplary embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims are to be construed as examples useful for understanding the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0007] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive an instruction from another network device (e.g., from at least one other network device) instructing it to request first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information including a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device; transmit the request for the first information to the terminal device; and receive a response including the first information. In some examples, this may enable the network device to collect the first information, for example, at least temporarily, such as information related to the capabilities of the terminal device, as specified, for example, by the other network device. In some examples, such collected information may be used to provide, for example, at least a portion of the collected information to at least one other device.

[0008] In some examples, at least one of the network devices or terminal devices may comply with and / or be based on some accepted (and / or planned) specifications, such as standards, such as 3GPP standards, such as 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G or some other wireless communication standards.

[0009] In some examples, the network device can be, for example, a base station, such as a gNB.

[0010] In some examples, the terminal device may be, for example, a user equipment (UE).

[0011] In some examples, the terminal device may be served by a network device, for example.

[0012] In some examples, a network device may be, for example, a source gNB currently serving an end device, and another network device may be, for example, a potential target gNB for the end device.

[0013] In some examples, a network device may receive instructions to receive the first information from more than one other network device (e.g., from multiple devices, such as multiple additional gNBs).

[0014] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit at least a portion of the first information to at least one other entity.

[0015] In some examples, the transmission of the first information (or at least a portion thereof) may be triggered, for example, by an event. In some examples, the triggering of the transmission of the first information may be related to, for example, a switching process.

[0016] In some examples, the transmission of the first information (or at least a portion thereof) may be performed at a predetermined time point, for example, selected by the network device.

[0017] In some examples, the first information (or at least a portion thereof) (e.g., may include the requested capability) may be sent immediately to another entity (e.g., a network device (e.g., a network device associated with the core network)) or sent along with a request from another network device (e.g., a gNB). In some examples, the first information may be stored, for example, at the core network, for example, for new, for example, future establishment processes.

[0018] In some examples, at least one additional entity is at least one of the following: a) an additional network device (e.g., an additional gNB, such as a potential target gNB for handover procedures of terminal devices and / or other neighboring gNBs), or b) another network device that accesses the Mobility Function (AMF) or is associated with the core network.

[0019] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause a network device to: transmit at least a portion of first information to another network device within a handover request.

[0020] In some examples, when executed by the at least one processor, the instruction causes the network device to: determine which portion of the first information to transmit to at least one other entity, and to transmit at least the determined portion to the at least one other entity.

[0021] In other words, in some examples, such as during the preparation of a handover process, or within a handover request, the network device may, for example, select which portion of the first information to provide (e.g., transmit) to at least one other entity. Therefore, in some examples, the network device may omit (e.g., decide not to transmit) at least a portion of the first information.

[0022] In some examples, the indication represents or includes at least one of the following: a) a capability filter (e.g., representing the capabilities of the terminal device), or b) at least one frequency band for which the network device should request the capabilities of the terminal device, such as as specified by another network device. In some examples, this enables another network device (e.g., a potential target gNB) to enable the network device (e.g., the currently serving (e.g., source) gNB) to request specific capability information from the terminal device, such specific capability information being related to the capabilities of the terminal device, such as that which may be specified by another network device, for example, using the indication.

[0023] In some examples, one or more UE capabilities that can be specified by an indication may be based on other information, such as, for example, a list of cells supported by the target gNB, or a subset of frequency bands to be used by the target gNB.

[0024] In other words, in some examples, another network device can use the principles of this disclosure to instruct another network device to request (e.g., collect) capability information of a terminal device, such as one that is currently of interest to the other network device. In other words, in some examples, this can enable a network device to initiate the collection of capability information of a terminal device, even if the network device itself would not, for example, actively collect such capability information of the terminal device, for example, because the network device itself is currently not interested in that particular capability information that might be requested by another network device.

[0025] In some examples, when executed by the at least one processor, the instruction causes the network device to: request one or more capability sets of the terminal device from the terminal device; and, based on the instruction, transmit at least one capability set from the one or more capability sets of the terminal device to the at least one additional entity. In some examples, requesting one or more capability sets may be accomplished, for example, by using a request for first information.

[0026] In some examples, when executed by at least one processor, the instructions cause the network device to: receive second information from the terminal device, the second information representing at least one of the following: a) capability filter information last queried from the terminal device, or b) an indication of the capabilities currently being used by the terminal device, such as an indication of a set of capabilities currently being used by the terminal device. In other words, in some examples, the terminal device may, for example, indicate a set of capabilities it is using, i.e., a set of capabilities it has sent to the network, for example, when the terminal device uses multiple sets of capabilities. In some examples, the terminal device may send the second information autonomously, for example, without receiving any request, such as a request for the first information. In some examples, the terminal device may, for example, repeatedly transmit the second information, for example, based on events or periodically.

[0027] In some examples, the network device may, for example, still transmit a request for the first information to the terminal device based on an instruction received from another network device. In some examples, the network device may, for example, transmit a request for the first information to the terminal device after it has already received the second information from the terminal device. In some examples, the network device may, for example, transmit a request for the first information to the terminal device before receiving the second information from the terminal device (e.g., in the absence of receiving the second information from the terminal device).

[0028] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause the network device to: store at least one of the following: a) first information or b) second information. In some examples, the network device may, for example, store at least one of the first information or the second information locally at the network device. In some examples, the network device may store at least one of the first information or the second information in a database (e.g., a public database) that may be accessed, for example, by the network device and at least one other device (e.g., another network device and / or other entity).

[0029] In some examples, when executed by the at least one processor, the instruction causes the network device to: receive an instruction to determine whether first information is available at the network device or at a public database, and based on the determination, transmit at least one of the following to at least one other entity: a) the first information or b) a reference to the first information stored in the database. In some examples, this can enable the avoidance of transmitting to the corresponding terminal device multiple requests for such capability information for the terminal device, which are already available at the network device or at a public database. In some examples, for example, if it is determined that the first information is unavailable at the network device or at a public database, the network device may transmit a corresponding request to the terminal device.

[0030] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus including, for example: receiving an instruction from another network device for requesting first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information including a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device; transmitting the request for the first information to the terminal device; and receiving a response including the first information.

[0031] In some examples, the components for receiving an instruction, transmitting a request to a terminal device, and receiving a response including first information may, for example, include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to perform at least one of the aforementioned aspects of receiving the instruction, transmitting the request, and receiving the response.

[0032] In some examples, the components for receiving an instruction, transmitting a request to a terminal device, and receiving a response including first information may include, for example, a circuit system configured to perform at least one of the foregoing aspects of receiving an instruction, transmitting a request, and receiving a response.

[0033] Some examples relate to a method for a network device, comprising: receiving an instruction from another network device for requesting first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information including a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device; transmitting the request for the first information to the terminal device; and receiving a response including the first information.

[0034] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit an indication to another network device associated with a terminal device (e.g., currently serving the terminal device), indicating for requesting first information from the terminal device, the first information including a capability requested by the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the network device. In some examples, the network device may be, for example, a potential target gNB for a terminal device to switch from another network device, which may, for example, at least temporarily, act as a source gNB, for example, currently serving the terminal device (e.g., a user equipment).

[0035] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive at least a portion of the first information. In some examples, this can enable, for example, a potential target gNB to obtain capability information of user equipment that the potential target gNB is interested in, even if the terminal device is not currently served by the potential target gNB.

[0036] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device that includes the ability to, for example, transmit an indication to another network device associated with a terminal device, indicating for requesting first information from the terminal device, the first information including a capability requested by the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the network device.

[0037] In some examples, the component for transmission indication may include, for example, at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to perform aspects of the transmission indication.

[0038] In some examples, the components for transmission indication may include, for example, a circuit system configured to perform the transmission indication.

[0039] Some examples relate to a method for a network device, the method comprising: transmitting to another network device associated with a terminal device an indication for requesting first information from the terminal device, the first information characterizing the capabilities of the terminal device as specified by the network device.

[0040] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a terminal device, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to: receive a request from a network device for first information, the first information including capabilities requested by the terminal device, wherein the requested capabilities are determined by another network device; and transmit a response including the first information. In some examples, the terminal device may be, for example, a user equipment currently served by a network device (e.g., a gNB), such as a source gNB for a potential future handover process.

[0041] In some examples, when executed by the at least one processor, the instruction causes the terminal device to perform at least one of the following: a) transmit second information to the network device, the second information representing at least one of the following: a1) capability filter information last queried from the terminal device, or a2) an indication of the capabilities currently being used by the terminal device, or b) include the second information in a radio resource control message.

[0042] As described above, in some examples, the terminal device can autonomously transmit the second information, for example, without receiving any requests, such as requests for the first information. In some examples, the terminal device can, for example, repeatedly transmit the second information, for example, based on events (e.g., if the capabilities of the terminal device have changed for some reason) or periodically.

[0043] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a terminal device, the apparatus including the ability to, for example: receive a request for first information from a network device, the first information including a capability requested by the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device, and transmit a response including the first information.

[0044] In some examples, the components for receiving requests and transmitting responses may include, for example, at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to perform aspects of receiving requests and transmitting responses.

[0045] In some examples, the components for receiving requests and transmitting responses may include, for example, circuitry configured to perform aspects of receiving requests and transmitting responses.

[0046] Some examples relate to a method for a terminal device, the method comprising: receiving from a network device a request for first information, the first information including a capability requested by the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device; and transmitting a response including the first information.

[0047] Some examples relate to a network device that includes at least one means according to this disclosure. In some examples, the network device may be, for example, a gNB. In some examples, the network device may be, for example, an access and mobility function, for example, based on some accepted (and / or planned) specification, such as a standard.

[0048] Some examples involve terminal devices, such as user equipment, that include at least one device according to this disclosure.

[0049] Some examples relate to a communication system (e.g., a wireless (e.g., cellular) communication system) that includes at least one of the following: a) an apparatus according to the present disclosure, or b) a network device according to the present disclosure, or c) a terminal device according to the present disclosure.

[0050] Some examples relate to a computer program that includes instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least some aspects of the method according to this disclosure.

[0051] Some examples involve computer-readable storage media that include computer programs according to this disclosure, such as non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

[0052] Some examples involve carrying and / or representing data carrier signals according to a computer program of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1A A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 1BA simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 2 A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 3 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 4 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 5 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 6 A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 7 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 8 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 9 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 10 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 11A A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 11B A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 12 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 13A A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 13B A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 14 A simplified flowchart based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 15 A simplified signaling diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 16 A simplified signaling diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Figure 17 A simplified block diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted.

[0054] Description of some example embodiments Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3Some examples relate to an apparatus 100 for a network device 10, the apparatus 100 including at least one processor 102 and at least one memory 104 storing instructions 106, which, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10 to: receive 300 an instruction IND from another network device 20 for requesting first information I1 from a terminal device 30 associated with the network device 10, the first information I1 including a requested capability of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device 20; transmit 302 a request REQ-I1 for the first information I1 to the terminal device 30; and receive 304 a response RESP-I1 including the first information I1. In some examples, this may enable the network device 10 to collect the first information I1, for example, at least temporarily, information related to the capabilities of the terminal device 30, such as that specified by the other network device 20.

[0055] In some examples, such collected information may be used, for example, to provide at least a portion of the collected information to at least one other device 20, for example, upon a request from another entity 20, 22 (such as, for example, another network device 20) or, for example, after receiving a 304 response RESP-I1.

[0056] exist Figure 2 In some examples, at least one of network device 10 or another network device 20 or terminal device 30 may comply with and / or may be based on some accepted (and / or planned) specifications, such as standards, such as 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G or some other wireless communication standards.

[0057] exist Figure 2 In some examples, network device 10 may be, for example, a base station, such as a gNB. In some examples, terminal device 30 may be, for example, a user equipment (UE). In some examples, terminal device 30 may be served by network device 10, for example.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In some examples, network device 10 may be, for example, the source gNB currently serving terminal device 30, and another network device 20 may be, for example, a potential target gNB of terminal device 30.

[0059] In some examples, Figure 3 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to transmit at least a portion of first information I1' to at least one other entity 20, 22.

[0060] In some examples, at least one of the additional entities 20, 22 is at least one of the following: a) another network device 20 (e.g., another gNB, such as a potential target gNB for the handover process of terminal device 30), or b) Access and Mobility Function (AMF) 22.

[0061] In some examples, Figure 4 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: transmit at least a portion I1′ of first information I1 (306a) to another network device 20 within a handover request, see, for example... Figure 15 Arrow a5, which will be explained in further detail below.

[0062] In some examples, Figure 4 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to transmit at least a portion I1′ of first information I1 (306b) to access and mobility function 22, see, for example... Figure 16 Arrow a18, which will be explained in further detail below.

[0063] In some examples, Figure 3 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: at least temporarily store 308 first information I1, for example locally (e.g., at network device 10) and / or in a database DB accessible by network device 10 and at least one other device 20, 22.

[0064] In some examples, Figure 5 When executed by at least one processor 102, instruction 106 causes network device 10 to: determine which part I1′ of the first information I1 to transmit to at least one other entity, and transmit at least the part I1′ determined by 312 to at least one other entity.

[0065] In other words, in some examples, such as during the preparation of a handover process, or within a handover request, network device 10 may, for example, select which portion of the first information I1 to provide (e.g., transmit) to at least one other entity 20, 22. Therefore, in some examples, network device 10 may omit (e.g., decide not to transmit) at least a portion of the first information.

[0066] exist Figure 6In some examples, the Indicator IND represents or includes at least one of the following: a) a Capability Filter (CAP-FILT), or b) at least one frequency band FB for which network device 10 should request the capabilities of terminal device 30, for example, as specified by another network device 20. In some examples, this enables another network device 20 (e.g., a potential target gNB) to allow network device 10 (e.g., a currently serving (e.g., source) gNB) to request specific capability information (e.g., related to the capabilities of terminal device 30) from terminal device 30, as may be specified by the other network device 20, for example, using the Indicator IND.

[0067] In other words, in some examples, another network device 20 can use the principles of this disclosure to instruct network device 10 to request (e.g., collect) capability information of the terminal device 30, for example, that the other network device 20 is currently interested in. In other words, in some examples, this can enable network device 10 to initiate the collection of capability information of terminal device 30, even if network device 10 itself would not, for example, actively collect such capability information of terminal device 30, for example, because network device 10 itself is, for example, currently not interested in that particular capability information that can be specified and / or requested by another network device 20.

[0068] In some examples, Figure 7 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: request 320 from terminal device 30 to provide one or more capability sets of terminal device 30 based on instruction IND, and transmit 324 at least one capability set SET-CAP from the one or more capability sets of terminal device 30 to at least one additional entity 20, 22. In some examples, request 320 to provide one or more capability sets may be accomplished, for example, by using request REQ', and in some examples, request REQ' may be, for example, request REQ-I1 for first information I1. Figure 7 Box 322 indicates that network device 10 receives a response RESP' to request REQ' from terminal device 30, wherein the response RESP' may include, for example, one or more sets of capabilities requested by terminal device 30.

[0069] In some examples, Figure 8Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: receive 330 second information I2 from terminal device 30, the second information I2 representing at least one of the following: a) capability filter information last queried from terminal device 30 (e.g., by network device 10), or b) an indication of capabilities currently being used by terminal device 30. In some examples, terminal device 30 may, for example, proactively transmit the second information I2 without receiving any requests, such as a request REQ-I1 for first information I1. In some examples, terminal device 30 may, for example, repeatedly and / or, for example, based on events or periodically, transmit the second information I2.

[0070] In some examples, Figure 8 Network device 10 may, for example, still be based on receiving an indication IND from another network device 20 (see, for example) Figure 3 (in box 300), transmit requests REQ-I1 and REQ' for the first information to the terminal device 30.

[0071] In some examples, network device 10 may, for instance, transmit requests REQ-I1, REQ' for the first information to terminal device 30 after receiving the second information I2 from the terminal device.

[0072] In some examples, network device 10 may transmit requests for the first information REQ-I1, REQ' to terminal device 30, for example, before receiving the second information I2 from terminal device 30 (e.g., in the absence of receiving the second information I2 from terminal device 30).

[0073] In some examples, Figure 8 Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: store at least one of the following: a) first information I1 (e.g., potentially in the form of one or more capability sets SET-CAP, see example...). Figure 7 (a) or (b) second information I2. In some examples, Figure 2 Network device 10 may, for example, locally store at network device 10 at at least one of the first information I1 or the second information I2. In some examples, network device 10 may store at least one of the first information I1 or the second information I2 in a database (e.g., a public database DB), which may be accessible to network device 10 and at least one other device 20, 22 (e.g., another network device 20 and / or other entities (such as AMF 22)). In some examples, the database DB may be local (not shown) at network device 10 or any other entity 20, 22.

[0074] In some examples, Figure 9Instruction 106, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes network device 10 to: receive instruction 340 (IND), determine 342 whether (e.g., already) the first information I1 is available at network device 10 or at a public database DB, and based on the determination (IND), transmit 344 at least one of the following to at least one other entity 20, 22: a) the first information I1 or b) a reference REF-I1 to the first information I1 stored in the database DB. In some examples, this can make it possible to avoid transmitting (multiple) requests REQ-I1 to the corresponding terminal device 30 for such capability information of the terminal device 30. Figure 2 This capability information is already available at network device 10 or at the public database DB.

[0075] In some examples, Figure 9 For example, if it is determined that the first information I1 generated by DET is unavailable at network device 10 or public database DB, then network device 10 may transmit 302 to terminal device 30 (see...). Figure 3 The corresponding request is REQ-I1.

[0076] Some examples ( Figure 1B The present invention relates to an apparatus 100' for a network device 10, the apparatus 100' including components 102' for: receiving 300 an indication IND from another network device, the indication IND being used to request first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information including a requested capability of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device; transmitting 302 a request for the first information to the terminal device; and receiving 304 a response including the first information.

[0077] In some examples, Figure 1B The component 102' for receiving the 300 instruction, transmitting the 302 request to the terminal device, and receiving the 304 response including the first information may, for example, include at least one processor 102 (see example...). Figure 1A The network device 10 has at least one memory 104 containing storage instructions 106, which, when executed by at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10 to perform at least one of the aforementioned aspects of receiving an instruction 300, transmitting a request 302, and receiving a response 304.

[0078] In some examples, Figure 1B The component 102' for receiving the 300 instruction, transmitting the 302 request to the terminal device, and receiving the 304 response including the first information may, for example, include: a circuit system 104' configured to perform at least one of the aforementioned aspects of receiving the 300 instruction, transmitting the 302 request, and receiving the 304 response.

[0079] In some examples, Figure 2Devices 100, 100', or corresponding functions may be provided for (e.g., assigned to or integrated into) network device 10. In some examples (not shown), devices 100, 100', or corresponding functions may also be provided for (e.g., assigned to or integrated into) another network device 20.

[0080] Some examples ( Figure 3 The present invention relates to a method for a network device 10, comprising: receiving, 300, an indication IND from another network device, the indication IND being used to request first information from a terminal device associated with the network device, the first information including a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device; transmitting, 302, a request for the first information to the terminal device; and receiving, 304, a response including the first information.

[0081] Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 11A Some examples relate to an apparatus 200 for a network device 20 (e.g., another network device 20 as described above), the apparatus 200 including at least one processor 202 and at least one memory 204 storing instructions 206, which, when executed by at least one processor 202, cause the network device 20 to: transmit 350 ( Figure 10 The network device 20 instructs the IND to request first information I1 from the terminal device 30. First information I1 includes the requested capabilities of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capabilities are determined by the network device 20. In some examples, the network device 20 may be, for example, a potential target gNB for the terminal device 30 to switch from another network device 10, which may, for example, act as a source gNB at least temporarily, for example, currently serving the terminal device (e.g., a user equipment).

[0082] In some examples, Figure 10 Instruction 206, when executed by at least one processor 202, causes network device 20 to receive at least a portion I1′ of first information I1. Figure 2 In some examples, this can enable, for example, a potential target gNB 20 to obtain capability information of a user device 30 that the potential target gNB 20 is interested in, even if the user device 30 is not currently being served by the potential target gNB 20, but rather by, for example, the source gNB 10.

[0083] Figure 11BSome examples relate to an apparatus 200' for network device 20, the apparatus 200' including a component 202' for transmitting a 350 indication to another network device 10 associated with terminal device 30, indicating first information for requesting from the terminal device including the requested capabilities of terminal device 30, wherein the requested capabilities are determined by the network device.

[0084] exist Figure 11B In some examples, the component 202' used to transmit the 350 indication may, for example, include at least one processor 202 (see example...) Figure 11A At least one memory 204 and storage instruction 206, which, when executed by at least one processor 202, causes the network device 20 to perform the aspect indicated by transmission 350.

[0085] In some examples, Figure 11B The component 202' for transmitting the 350 indication may, for example, include a circuit system 204' configured to perform the aspect of transmitting the 350 indication.

[0086] Some examples ( Figure 10 The present invention relates to a method for a network device 20, comprising: transmitting a 350 indication IND to another network device 10 associated with a terminal device 30, the indication IND being used to request first information from the terminal device including a requested capability of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capability is determined by the network device 20.

[0087] Figure 2 , Figure 12 , Figure 13A Some examples relate to an apparatus 400 for a terminal device 30, the apparatus 400 including at least one processor 402 and at least one memory 404 storing instructions 406, which, when executed by the at least one processor 402, cause the terminal device 30 to: receive 500 requests REQ-I1 for first information I1 from network device 10, the first information I1 including the requested capabilities of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capabilities are determined by another network device 20; and transmit 502 including a response RESP-I1 to the first information I1. In some examples, the terminal device 30 may be, for example, a user equipment, currently served by a network device (e.g., a gNB, such as the source gNB 10 for a potential future handover process).

[0088] In some examples, Figure 14 Instruction 406, when executed by at least one processor 402, causes terminal device 30 to perform at least one of the following: a) transmit 510 second information I2 to network device 10, the second information I2 representing at least one of the following: a1) capability filter information last queried from terminal device (e.g., using request REQ-I1, see example). Figure 3 (a) a2) an indication of the capabilities currently being used by terminal device 30, or (b) in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message (e.g., an RRC establishment completion message, see, for example, explained in further detail below). Figure 16 The arrow a12 includes the second information I2 (512).

[0089] As described above, in some examples, terminal device 30 may proactively transmit the second information I2, for example, without receiving any requests, such as a request for the first information REQ-I1. In some examples, terminal device 30 may, for example, repeatedly transmit the second information I2. For example, based on events (e.g., if the capabilities of the terminal device have changed for some reason) or periodically.

[0090] Some examples ( Figure 13B The present invention relates to an apparatus 400' for a terminal device 30, the apparatus 400' including components 402' for: receiving 500 requests for first information from a network device, the first information including the requested capabilities of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capabilities are determined by another network device; and transmitting 502 a response including the first information.

[0091] exist Figure 13B In some examples, the component 402' for receiving a 500 request and transmitting a 502 response may, for example, include at least one processor 402 (see example...). Figure 13A At least one memory 404 and a storage instruction 406, which, when executed by at least one processor 402, causes the terminal device 30 to perform aspects of receiving a request 500 and transmitting a response 502.

[0092] In some examples, Figure 13B The component 402' for receiving a 500 request and transmitting a 502 response may, for example, include a circuit system 404' configured to perform aspects of receiving a 500 request and transmitting a 502 response.

[0093] Some examples ( Figure 12 The present invention relates to a method for a terminal device 30, comprising: receiving 500 requests REQ-I1 for first information I1 from a network device 10, the first information I1 including a requested capability of the terminal device 30, wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device 20; for example, transmitting 502 a response RESP-I1 including the first information I1 to the network device 10.

[0094] Figure 2Some examples involve network devices 10, 20, 22 including at least one device 100, 100', 200, 200' according to this disclosure. In some examples, network devices 10, 20 may be, for example, gNBs. In some examples, network devices may be, for example, access and mobility function 22, for example, based on some accepted (and / or planned) specifications, such as standards.

[0095] Figure 2 Some examples involve a terminal device (e.g., a user equipment) 30 that includes at least one device 400, 400' according to this disclosure.

[0096] Some examples ( Figure 2 The present disclosure relates to a communication system 1000 (e.g., a wireless (e.g., cellular) communication system) which includes at least one of the following: a) an apparatus 100, 100', 200, 200', 400, 400' according to the present disclosure, or b) a network device 10, 20, 22 according to the present disclosure, or c) a terminal device 30 according to the present disclosure.

[0097] Further aspects and examples are disclosed below, which in some examples may be combined with at least one of the aspects and / or examples disclosed above.

[0098] Figure 15 A simplified signaling diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Element E1 represents a terminal device, such as a user equipment (“UE”), for example, at least similar to Figure 2 Element 30. Element E2a represents the source gNB currently serving UE E1, for example, at least similar to... Figure 2 Element 10. Element E2b represents a potential target gNB, for example, at least similar to Figure 2 Element 20.

[0099] Arrow a1 indicates the target gNB E2b, pointing a UE capability filter to the source gNB E2a. This UE capability filter represents information related to the UE capabilities that the target gNB E2b is interested in obtaining. In some instances, Figure 15 The instruction a1 can be, for example, at least similar to Figure 3 The indicator IND, see, for example, box 300. In some examples, indicator a1 may characterize a subset of the UE capabilities of UE E1 that the target gNB wants to obtain. Figure 15 Arrow a2 in the text indicates that the source gNB E2a queries (e.g., requests) the UE capabilities specified by the target gNB (arrow a1) from the UE E1, such as using information received from the target gNB E2b via arrow a1.

[0100] In some examples, the UE may send the requested information to the source gNB E2a, for example, in the form of one or more capability containers, see arrow a3. In some examples, the requested information (e.g., at least similar to the first information I1, see example) Figure 2 They can be sent simultaneously, for example, all at once (e.g., within a single message from the UE to the source gNB).

[0101] In some other examples, the requested information can be sent from the UE to the source gNB using more than one message (e.g., using a message to send, for example, a capability container).

[0102] In some examples ( Figure 15 In this context, the UE can send one or more measurements to the source gNB (see arrow a4), for example, indicating the need for a handover toward the target gNB.

[0103] In some examples, the source gNB may transmit a handover request a5 to the target gNB. In some examples, the handover request a5 may include information related to the UE's capabilities, such as information requested using arrow a2.

[0104] In some examples, the target gNB can respond to the handover request a5 using handover confirmation a6. In some examples, the source gNB can send a handover command a7 to the UE. In some examples, the UE can connect to the target gNB, see arrow a8.

[0105] Figure 16 A simplified signaling diagram based on some examples is schematically depicted. Similar to... Figure 15 , Figure 16 The element E1 represents UE. Figure 16 The element E2c represents the initial gNB, for example, the gNB of the initial serving UE E1. Figure 16 The element E2d represents a new gNB, such as UE E1 serving in a later stage. Figure 16 The element E3 represents Access and Mobility Function (AMF).

[0106] In some examples, the UE can request RRC connection establishment, see [link / reference]. Figure 16 Arrow a10 indicates that the UE's capabilities may not yet be known at this stage. In some examples, the network may establish an RRC connection, for example, based on forced UE capabilities, see arrow a11. In some examples, the UE may indicate the completion of RRC connection establishment, see arrow a12. In some examples, at this stage, UE E1 has an RRC connection with the initial gNB E2c.

[0107] Arrow a13 indicates an initial UE message from the initial gNB to the AMF, based on some examples. This message a13 represents, for example, an identifier of the UE E1, such as the UE ID, and, for example, a desired UE capability filter for UE capabilities.

[0108] In some examples, the AMF E3 can indicate its stored UE capabilities to the initial gNB E2c, see arrow a14. In some examples, at this stage, the AMF may (not yet) have any UE capabilities, and in some examples, these UE capabilities can also be signaled using arrow a14. Therefore, in some examples, the principles of this disclosure can be used to obtain UE capability information.

[0109] Figure 16 Arrow a15 indicates that another gNB (e.g., a "new" gNB E2d) may, for example, use a UE capability filter to indicate a subset of the UE capabilities of UE E1 to the initial gNB E2c, and the new gNB E2d is interested in obtaining a subset of the UE capabilities of UE E1. In some examples, indication a15 may be completely independent of the RRC procedure indicated, for example, by arrows a10, a11, a12, and may be performed, for example, when the proximity relationship between gNBs E2c and E2d is known.

[0110] Figure 16 Arrow a16 indicates that the initial gNB E2c requests UE capabilities from the UE, which are specified by at least one of the following: a) the new gNB E2d (e.g., using indication a15), or b) the AMF E3 (e.g., see arrow a14). In other words, in some examples, at least one of the devices E2d and E3 can specify (see arrows a14, a15) one or more capabilities of the UE, and the initial gNB E2c should determine the capabilities, for example, by requesting them from the UE. In some examples, the initial gNB can, for example, use request a16 to request this information, for example, that is specified by at least one of the devices E2d and E3.

[0111] In some examples, UE E1 may send the requested information to the network, such as information related to a specified capability of the UE, for example, to the initial gNB, see arrow a17. In some examples, the requested information may be sent, for example, "one by one," such as the UE sending a message to the initial gNB for each element of the requested information (e.g., each capability container). In some examples, one or more requested information elements (e.g., in the form of one or more capability containers) may be sent by the UE to the initial gNB in ​​a single message.

[0112] In some examples, the initial gNB E2c may send message a18 to the AMF E3, which includes at least a portion of the requested information (e.g., as specified by at least one of devices E2d and E3, see arrows a14 and a15). In some examples, the AMF E3 may store the received information (e.g., information characterizing the requested UE capability) based, for example, on the received UE capability filter or ID, rather than rewriting any existing UE capabilities.

[0113] In some examples, after this, the RRC connection can be released for the initial gNB, see arrow a19. In some examples, for example, after this, UE E1 can reselect to another cell, for example, associated with the new gNB E2d, see [reference needed]. Figure 16 The element E4.

[0114] In some examples ( Figure 16 In the diagram, UE E1 can send a new RRC establishment request a20 in the new cell. Arrow a21 indicates RRC establishment in the new cell, and arrow a22 indicates that the UE sends an RRC establishment completion message, which may include, for example, a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) container that may include an initial UE message. In some examples, the new gNB E2d can send an initial UE message to AMF E3, see arrow a23, for example, by adding a filter identifier or UE capability filter to message a23.

[0115] In some examples, Figure 16 For example, when AMF E3 sends the initial UE context settings, see arrow a24, it can include the correct UE capabilities (e.g., based on the indicated UE ID and UE capability filter) in message a24.

[0116] In some examples, for instance, by using the principles of this disclosure, the new gNB E2d now knows, for example, the required UE capabilities and can, for example, avoid additional UE capability queries at this stage. Conversely, in some examples, the new gNB E2d can, for example, directly configure the required configuration for the UE, see example RRC reconfiguration message a25. Arrow a26 indicates that the UE sends an RRC reconfiguration complete message to the new gNB E2d.

[0117] Some examples ( Figure 17 The present invention relates to a computer program PRG including the instruction INSTR, which, when executed by means of means 100, 100′, 200, 200′, 400, 400′, causes means 100, 100′, 200, 200′, 400, 400′ to perform at least some aspects of the method according to the present disclosure.

[0118] Figure 17Some examples involve a computer-readable storage medium SM that includes a computer program PRG according to this disclosure, such as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium SM.

[0119] Figure 17 Some examples involve carrying and / or characterizing a data carrier signal DCS according to a computer program PRG based on this disclosure.

[0120] In some examples, the principles of this disclosure can be used, for example, to enable communication system 1000 ( Figure 2 Network devices 10, 20, and 22 may collect (e.g., build and store) UE capability information, for example, in the background (e.g., repeatedly, such as periodically or periodically).

[0121] In some examples, the principles of this disclosure can be used, for example, to rapidly deliver correct capability information of a terminal device, such as for a new handover target. In some examples, the UE may be requested to provide at least a portion of its capability information, for example, in the form of one or more capability containers, for example, according to at least one additional entity 20, 22 ( Figure 2 The information specified by the UE may, for example, characterize or represent one or more capability filters (e.g., having different frequency bands for each such capability filter request). In some examples, the UE may provide the requested capability information in the order in which it is requested. In other words, in some examples, the UE may, for example, process one capability request or query first, then process the next capability request or query, and so on.

[0122] In some examples, Figure 2 The target gNB 20 may indicate to the source gNB 10 in advance (e.g., during Xn establishment or via another (e.g., a new) process) the UE capabilities it needs, for example, to configure UE 30 for handover from the source gNB 10 to the target gNB 20. In some examples, this indication may, for example, characterize or include a UE capability band filter for UE capability querying, or characterize or include a UE capability request that the target gNB 20 wishes to use for UE 30. In some examples, more generally, the indication may characterize or include one or more bands of UE capabilities that the target gNB 20 wishes to acquire. In some examples, the source gNB 10 may request UE 30 to send the relevant capabilities, for example, to the source gNB 10, such as when UE 30 connects to the source gNB 10 (e.g., during the connection of UE 30 to the source gNB 10).

[0123] In some examples, gNB 10 may request one or more (e.g., several) UE capability sets from UE 30, and in some examples, for example, after collecting all several UE capability sets, gNB 10 may transmit at least a portion of these several UE capability sets to another entity (such as AMF 22).

[0124] In some examples, such as when the UE initiates a new call setup and sends an initial message from the new gNB to the AMF, see, for example... Figure 16 Arrow a23 indicates that the gNB can include information, for example, about the required frequency band combination for the UE in message a23. In some examples, AMF E3 can then, for example, directly include the correct UE capabilities in message a24, and the new gNB E2d can, for example, avoid additional UE capability queries.

[0125] In some examples, Figure 16 For example, alternatively or additionally, UE E1 may include information characterizing the latest "UE capability band filter" in message a12, for example, to let the initial gNB E2c know which capabilities were last queried or which capabilities the UE is currently using (e.g., in case the UE capabilities have changed for some reason). In some examples, using multiple capability sets allows for having only specific band combinations within the capabilities.

[0126] In some examples, Figure 2 The gNB 10 can store UE capability information specific to a frequency band combination into, for example, a public database (DB). In some examples, such as when a handover is triggered, the gNB 10 can retrieve neighbor cell optimization capabilities from the database (DB), or alternatively, it can deliver keys to the public database (DB) to, for example, check available capabilities.

[0127] exist Figure 2 In some examples, the principles of this disclosure enable the target gNB 20 to configure the UE 30, for example, for desired features, without first querying the corresponding UE capabilities. In some examples, this can enable the avoidance of, for example, temporary performance issues for the UE, or even the avoidance of failures, such as when the UE actually needs to quickly hand over to the next cell of the new gNB 20 (e.g., since traditional UE capability queries may take some time, while handover may need to be completed quickly).

[0128] exist Figure 2In some examples, the principles of this disclosure enable the avoidance or mitigation of problems that conventional communication systems may experience, where the UE triggers a new RRC establishment, for example, after an initial UE connection. In this case, in the conventional approach, UE capabilities are typically already stored in the AMF, and the AMF can deliver capabilities to the gNB during the initial context setup. In this case, the old capabilities can be collected on a completely different side of the network within the AMF area, and therefore may not actually be used for the new RRC establishment at all. In this case, in the conventional approach, the gNB may need to query the capabilities from the UE again. This results in additional delays in the connection establishment process and reduces the efficiency of UE configuration (as it will be based only on very basic forced capabilities). After the gNB receives the UE capabilities, it updates the AMF with the new capabilities, and in this case, the AMF will overwrite the existing capabilities with the new capabilities. Therefore, if the UE operates in an area where cell capabilities change, the same problem may persist after each setup. In some examples, at least some of these problems can be avoided or mitigated by using the principles of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for a network device (10), the apparatus (100) comprising at least one processor (102) and at least one memory (104) storing instructions (106), the instructions (106) causing the network device (10) to: receive (300) an instruction (IND) from another network device (20) for requesting first information (I1) from a terminal device (30) associated with the network device (10), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device, wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device (20); transmit (302) a request (REQ-I1) for the first information (I1) to the terminal device (30); and receive (304) a response (RESP-I1) including the first information (I1).

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the instruction (106) when executed by the at least one processor (102) causes the network device (10) to: transmit (306; 306a; 306b) at least a portion (I1') of the first information (I1) to at least one other entity (20, 22).

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one additional entity (20, 22) is at least one of the following: a) the other network device (20), or b) the access and mobility function (22).

4. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the instruction (106) when executed by the at least one processor (102) causes the network device (10) to: transmit (306a) at least a portion (I1') of the first information (I1) to the other network device (20) within a switching request (a5).

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the instruction (106) when executed by the at least one processor (102) causes the network device (10) to: determine which portion (I1') of the first information (I1) to transmit (310) to the at least one additional entity (20, 22), and to transmit (312) at least the determined portion (I1') to the at least one additional entity (20, 22).

6. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the indication (IND) characterizes or includes at least one of the following: a) a capability filter (CAP-FILT), or b) at least one frequency band (FB), for which the network device (10) shall request the capability of the terminal device (30) for the at least one frequency band (FB).

7. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the network device (10) to: request (320) from the terminal device (30) to provide one or more capability sets of the terminal device (30) based on the instruction (IND), and transmit (324) at least one capability set (SET-CAP) of the one or more capability sets of the terminal device (30) to the at least one additional entity (20, 22).

8. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the network device (10) to: receive (330) second information (I2) from the terminal device (30), the second information (I2) representing at least one of: a) capability filter information last queried from the terminal device (30), or b) an indication of a capability currently being used by the terminal device (30).

9. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the instruction (106) when executed by the at least one processor (102) causes the network device (10) to: store (332) at least one of the following: a) the first information (I1) or b) the second information (I2).

10. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the network device (10) to: receive (340) the instruction (IND), determine (342) whether the first information (I1) is available at the network device (10) or at a public database (DB), and based on the determination (342), transmit (344) at least one of the following to the at least one additional entity (20, 22): a) the first information (I1) or b) a reference (REF-I1) of the first information (I1) stored in the database (DB).

11. An apparatus (100') for a network device (10), the apparatus (100') comprising (102') components for: receiving (300) an instruction (IND) from another network device (20) for requesting first information (I1) from a terminal device (30) associated with the network device (10), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by the other network device (20); transmitting (302) a request (REQ-I1) for the first information (I1) to the terminal device (30); and receiving (304) a response (RESP-I1) including the first information (I1).

12. A method for a network device (10), comprising: Receive (300) an instruction (IND) from another network device (20) for requesting first information (I1) from a terminal device (30) associated with the network device (10), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30) determined by the other network device (20), transmit (302) a request (REQ-I1) for the first information (I1) to the terminal device (30), and receive (304) a response (RESP-I1) including the first information (I1).

13. An apparatus (200) for a network device (20), the apparatus (200) comprising at least one processor (202) and at least one memory (104) storing instructions (206), the instructions (206) causing the network device (20), when executed by the at least one processor (202), to transmit (350) an indication (IND) to another network device (20) associated with a terminal device (30), the indication (IND) for requesting first information (I1) from the terminal device (30), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by the network device (20).

14. The apparatus (200) according to claim 13, wherein the instruction (206) when executed by the at least one processor (202) causes the network device (20) to: receive (352) at least a portion (I1') of the first information (I1).

15. An apparatus (200') for a network device (20), the apparatus (200') comprising (202') for: transmitting (350) an indication (IND) to another network device (20) associated with a terminal device (30), the indication (IND) for requesting first information (I1) from the terminal device (30), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by the network device (20).

16. A method for a network device (20), comprising: Transmit (350) indication (IND) to another network device (20) associated with the terminal device (30), the indication (IND) for requesting first information (I1) from the terminal device (30), the first information (I1) including the requested capabilities of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capabilities are determined by the network device (20).

17. An apparatus (400) for a terminal device (30), the apparatus (400) comprising at least one processor (402) and at least one memory (404) storing instructions (406), the instructions (406) causing the terminal device (30), when executed by the at least one processor (402), to: receive (500) a request (REQ-I1) for first information (I1) from a network device (10), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device (20), and transmit (502) a response (RESP-I1) including the first information (I1).

18. The apparatus (400) of claim 18, wherein the instruction (406), when executed by the at least one processor (402), causes the terminal device (30) to perform at least one of the following: a) transmit (510) second information (I2) to the network device (10), the second information (I2) representing at least one of the following: a1) capability filter information last queried from the terminal device (30), or a2) an indication of the capabilities currently being used by the terminal device (30), or b) including (512) the second information (I2) in a radio resource control message (a12).

19. An apparatus (400') for a terminal device (30), the apparatus (400') comprising (402') for receiving (500) a request (REQ-I1) for first information (I1) from a network device (10), the first information (I1) including a requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device (20), and transmitting (502) a response (RESP-I1) including the first information (I1).

20. A method for a terminal device (30), comprising: The terminal device (30) receives (500) a request (REQ-I1) for a first message (I1) from the network device (10), the first message (I1) including the requested capability of the terminal device (30), wherein the requested capability is determined by another network device (20), and transmits (502) a response (RESP-I1) to the first message (I1).

21. A network device (10, 20; 22) comprising at least one means (100; 100'; 200; 200') according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or 13 to 15.

22. A terminal device (40) comprising at least one device (400; 400') according to any one of claims 17 to 19.

23. A communication system (1000) comprising at least one of the following: a) a device (100; 100'; 200; 200'; 400; 400') according to any one of claims 1 to 11, 13 to 15, or 17 to 19; or b) a network device (10, 20, 22) according to claim 21; or c) a terminal device (30) according to claim 22.

24. A computer program (PRG) comprising instructions (INSTR) that, when executed by a device (100; 100'; 200; 200'; 400; 400'), cause the device (100; 100'; 200; 200'; 400; 400') to perform at least some aspects of the method according to any one of claims 12, 16, or 20.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, such as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, comprising a computer program (PRG) according to claim 24.

26. A data carrier signal, said data carrier signal carrying and / or representing the computer program (PRG) according to claim 24.

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