Data collection

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to data collection and provide an apparatus, for example, caused to receive at least one trace activation message for data collection, the at least one trace activation message comprising at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one trace indication, and information for determining a network element for selecting one or more user equipments for performing measurements indicated in the measurement configuration; transmit, when the information for determining the network element indicates that another network element than the first network element selects the one or more user equipments, a message to the another network element requesting selection of the one or more user equipments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various examples and embodiments generally involve communication. Background Technology

[0002] Artificial intelligence (AI) and / or machine learning (ML) offer mobile operators the potential to operate communication networks more cost-effectively. Deploying AI improves systems to be more robust, high-performing, and less complex. Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) are AI technologies that have attracted significant attention due to their potential to enhance 5G cellular network management. In addition to 5G networks, sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication related to 3GPP standardization is currently under investigation.

[0003] One area of ​​focus is the enhancement of specified data collection and signaling support for AI / ML-based network management. This enhancement is designed for both non-discrete and discrete architectures, where the gNB is divided into a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided, comprising: receiving, by a first network unit, at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit, the network unit being configured to select one or more user devices, the one or more user devices being configured to perform a measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; selecting one or more user devices when the information for determining a network unit instructs the first network unit to select one or more user devices, transmitting information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user devices and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication; and / or transmitting a message requesting selection of one or more user devices to another network unit when the information for determining a network unit instructs another network unit, other than the first network unit, to select one or more user devices.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive, by a first network unit, at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit, the network unit being configured to select one or more user devices, the one or more user devices being configured to perform a measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; when the information for determining a network unit instructs the first network unit to select one or more user devices, select one or more user devices, transmit information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user devices and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication; and / or when the information for determining a network unit instructs another network unit, other than the first network unit, to select one or more user devices, transmit a message requesting selection of one or more user devices to the other network unit.

[0006] Some embodiments of the present invention are defined in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments and accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 One or more embodiments of the network to which this embodiment applies are presented; Figure 2 An example of the method is shown; Figure 3 An example of signaling is shown; Figure 4 Another example of signaling is shown; Figure 5 This shows yet another example of signaling; Figure 6 An example of the device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0008] The following embodiments are exemplary. Although the specification may refer to "a," "an," or "some" (or more) embodiments in some places in the text, this does not necessarily mean that each reference is made to the same (or more) embodiments, or that a particular feature is applicable only to a single embodiment. Individual features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments. For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases "at least one of A or B," "at least one of A and B," and "A and / or B" mean (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases "A or B" and "A and / or B" mean (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases "A, B, and / or C" mean (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C).

[0009] It should be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0010] The described embodiments can be implemented in radio systems, such as radio systems including at least one of the following radio access technologies (RATs): WiMAX, LTE, LTE Advanced, and eLTE. The term "eLTE" here refers to LTE evolution connected to a 5G core; LTE is also known as Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) or Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (EUTRAN), 5G networks, and / or 6G networks. 3GPP's solution for 5G is called New Radio (NR). 6G is envisioned as a further development of 5G.

[0011] The term "resource" can refer to radio resources, such as physical resource blocks (PRBs), radio frames, subframes, time slots, subbands, frequency regions, subcarriers, beams, etc. The terms "transmit" and / or "receive" can refer to the wireless transmission and / or reception on radio resources via a radio propagation channel.

[0012] Low-latency applications and services may require content to be located close to the radio, leading to local outages and multi-access edge computing (MEC). 5G (and 6G) ​​enables analytics and knowledge generation to occur at the data source. This approach requires leveraging resources that may be discontinuously connected to the network, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and sensors. MEC provides a distributed computing environment for application and service hosting. It also has the ability to store and process content near cellular subscribers for faster response times. Edge computing encompasses a wide range of technologies, such as wireless sensor networks, mobile data acquisition, mobile signature analytics, collaborative distributed peer-to-peer self-organizing networking and processing, and can also be categorized as local cloud / fog computing and grid / mesh computing, dew computing, mobile edge computing, micro-cloud, distributed data storage and retrieval, autonomous self-healing networks, remote cloud services, augmented and virtual reality, data caching, the Internet of Things (IoT) (massive connectivity and / or latency critical), and critical communications (autonomous vehicles, traffic safety, real-time analytics, time-critical control, healthcare applications). By leveraging Network Functions Virtualization (NVF) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN), edge clouds can be integrated into the RAN. Using edge cloud can mean performing access node operations, at least partially, in servers, hosts, or nodes that are operatively coupled to a remote radio head or base station, including the radio portion. Network slicing allows the creation of multiple virtual networks over a shared physical infrastructure. These virtual networks can then be customized to meet the specific needs of applications, services, devices, customers, or operators.

[0013] In radio communications, node operations can be performed, at least partially, in a central / centralized unit (CU) (e.g., a server, host, or node) operatively coupled to a distributed unit (DU) (e.g., a radio headend / node). Node operations can also be distributed among multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the distribution of operations between core network operations and base station operations can vary depending on the implementation scheme. Therefore, 5G network architectures can be based on so-called CU-DU splitting. One gNB-CU controls several gNB-DUs. The term "gNB" can correspond to the eNB in ​​LTE in 5G. One or more gNBs can communicate with one or more UEs. A gNB-CU (central node) can control multiple spatially separated gNB-DUs, at least acting as a transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) node. However, in some embodiments, the gNB-DU (also known as DU) may include, for example, the Radio Link Control (RLC), Media Access Control (MAC) layer, and Physical (PHY) layer, while the gNB-CU (also known as CU) may include layers above the RLC layer, such as the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio Resource Control (RRC), and Internet Protocol (IP) layer. Other functional splits are also possible. It is generally believed that those skilled in the art are familiar with the OSI model and the functions within each layer.

[0014] Further splitting of gNB-CU can be caused by the separation between the control plane (CP) and the user plane (UP), as follows: gNB-CU-Control Plane (gNB-CU-CP) is the logical node of the control plane portion of the PDCP protocol that hosts RRC and gNB-CU, and gNB-CU-User Plane (gNB-CU-UP) is the logical node of the user plane portion of the PDCP protocol that hosts gNB-CU, as well as the user plane portion of the PDCP and SDAP protocols for gNB-CU.

[0015] In an embodiment, a server or CU can generate a virtual network through which the server communicates with radio nodes. Typically, virtual networking can involve the process of combining hardware and software network resources and functions into a single software-based management entity (virtual network). Such a virtual network can provide flexible operational distribution between the server and the radio head end / node. In practice, any digital signal processing task can be performed in the CU or DU, and the boundaries of responsibility transfer between the CU and DU can be selected depending on the implementation scheme.

[0016] Some other potential technological advancements to utilize are Software-Defined Networking (SDN), big data, and all-IP, to name just a few non-limiting examples. For instance, network slicing can take the form of a virtual network architecture that uses the same principles behind SDN and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) in fixed networks. SDN and NFV can provide greater network flexibility by allowing traditional network architectures to be divided into virtual elements that can be (also via software) linked. Network slicing allows the creation of multiple virtual networks on top of a shared physical infrastructure. These virtual networks can then be customized to meet the specific needs of applications, services, devices, customers, or operators.

[0017] Multiple gNBs (access points / nodes) can connect to each other via the Xn interface (through which gNBs can negotiate), and each gNB includes a CU and one or more DUs. gNBs can also connect to the 5G core network (5GC) via a next-generation (NG) interface. This 5G CU-DU split architecture can be implemented using (edge) cloud / servers, allowing the higher-level CUs to reside in the cloud, while the DUs are closer to or include the actual radio and antenna units (RUs).

[0018] 5G or 6G can also leverage satellite communications to enhance or supplement 5G service coverage, for example, by providing backhaul. Possible use cases include providing service continuity for machine-to-machine (M2M) or Internet of Things (IoT) devices or for passengers on transportation vehicles, or ensuring service availability for critical communications and future rail / sea / air communications. Satellite communications can utilize geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite systems, as well as low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, particularly mega-constellations (systems deploying hundreds of (nanometer) satellites). Each satellite in a large constellation can cover several satellite-enabled network entities that create terrestrial cells. Terrestrial cells can be created via ground relay nodes or via gNBs located on the ground or in satellites. Examples also apply to vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), infrastructure-to-vehicle (I2V), or generally V2X or X2V communications.

[0019] Figure 1 An example of a communication system to which embodiments of the present invention can be applied is illustrated. The system may include a control node 110 and a control node 112, wherein control node 110 provides one or more cells (such as cell 100) and control node 112 provides one or more other cells (such as cell 102). For example, each cell may be a macrocell, microcell, femtocell, or picocell. In another view, the cell may define a coverage area or service area for a corresponding access node. Control nodes 110 and 112 may be a 5G gNB or any other device capable of controlling radio communications and managing radio resources within the cell. Control nodes 110 and 112 may be referred to as a base station, network node, or access node.

[0020] The system can be a cellular communication system consisting of a radio access network of access nodes, with each access node controlling one or more corresponding cells. Access node 110 can provide user equipment (UE) 120 (one or more UEs) with radio access to other networks, such as the Internet. Radio access may include downlink (DL) communication from the control node to UE 120 and uplink (UL) communication from UE 120 to the control node.

[0021] Additionally, although not shown, one or more local access nodes may be arranged such that the cell provided by the local access node at least partially overlaps with the cell of access nodes 110 and / or 112. The local access node can provide radio access within a sub-cell. Examples of sub-cells may include micro, pico, and / or femtocells. Typically, sub-cells provide hotspots within macrocells. The operation of the local access node can be controlled by an access node that provides sub-cells within its control area. Typically, the control node for small cells may also be referred to as a base station, network node, or access node.

[0022] Multiple user equipments (UEs) 120 and 122 can exist in the system. Each of these UEs can be served by the same or different control nodes 110 and 112. With a D2D communication interface established between them, UEs 120 and 122 can communicate with each other.

[0023] The terms “user equipment,” “terminal equipment,” or “UE” refer to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. By way of example and not limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), portable subscriber station, mobile station (MS), or access terminal (AT). Terminal devices may include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, VoIP phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices (such as digital cameras), gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop devices (LMEs), USB dongles, smart devices, wireless customer premises equipment (CPEs), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, head-mounted displays (HMDs), vehicles, drones, medical devices and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial devices and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in the context of industrial and / or automated processing chains), consumer electronics devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. In the following description, the terms "terminal device," "user equipment," "communication equipment," "terminal," "user gear," and "UE" may be used interchangeably.

[0024] Access nodes 110 and 112 can also connect to the core network 116 of the cellular communication system via another interface. The 5G specification designates the core network as the 5G core (5GC), and the core network can include, for example, Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) and User Plane Functions / Gateways (UPF), to name a few. AMF can handle the termination of Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling, NAS encryption and integrity protection, registration management, connection management, mobility management, access authentication and authorization, and security context management. For example, UPF nodes can support packet routing and forwarding, packet inspection, and QoS processing.

[0025] Data collection can be managed through orchestration and maintenance or operation, management and maintenance (OAM) 118, which is then responsible for managing data collection tracking. In this patent application, orchestration and maintenance is also referred to as a management system, or is considered part of a management system.

[0026] General drivers for orchestration and automation (O&A) involve reducing and minimizing operating expenses (OPEX). OPEX reduction techniques include domain automation and reduced configuration errors and rollbacks, for example, through intent-based networking and management in 6G. New use cases include coexistence of cloud radio access networks (RAN) with classic 5G RAN, software-defined access networks, open RAN (O-RAN), end-to-end network slicing in 5G standalone (SA), multi-vendor network function (NF) related processes, development and operations process integration (DevOps), and continuous integration / continuous deployment (CI / CD) pipelines.

[0027] 6G will be AI / ML native. Automated Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) are a key enabler for 6G. At the network edge, AI / ML can be viewed as a joint capability, encompassing data collection for training and inference, as well as bringing algorithms close to the data. All aspects of AI / ML in general need to be scalable to support instantiation across a wide range of networking contexts, including extreme edge environments. Data fusion will integrate data from diverse sources, such as sensors throughout a smart city, eHealth sensors, and robots in advanced manufacturing.

[0028] Efficient data collection for AI algorithms enables lifecycle management of the data used in the training and inference of these algorithms. By combining centralized and distributed approaches to data processing and storage, communication networks can adapt to diverse needs: data can be processed and stored in multiple locations, such as DU, CU (CU-CP or CU-UP), Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM), on-top (OTT) servers, or in the core network, as needed. Local processing and storage can be performed at the user terminal side, or data can be processed and centrally stored in a data center, which may be located in the cloud. Through collaboration between user equipment, the central data center, and / or edge nodes, communication networks can effectively manage large amounts of data originating from various domains. Distributed data collection, storage, and processing improve network scalability and accelerate the training and inference process of AI models. Current standards introduce tracing mechanisms for activating tracing sessions in the radio access network (NG-RAN). For example, a tracing session may include an interface tracing session and / or a minimized drive test (MDT) session. Interface tracing is introduced to enable troubleshooting, for example, in operator networks. The tracing session activation message includes the following tracing-related parameters: Tracing Reference (TR), Tracing Depth, Tracing Target (which includes a list of NG-RAN cells), a list of interfaces for the NG-RAN node, and the IP address of the tracing collection entity (which will be used to send tracing records created at the NG-RAN node). In the case of flow-based tracing reports, a Tracing Report Consumer Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) is alternatively included. Furthermore, for MDTs, measurement configuration is included in the tracing session activation request sent to the NG-RAN node. This may include the job type, area (where MDT measurements should be collected), measurement list, and instructions on how to collect measurements (triggering events and conditions), and a configuration for reporting measurements, such as including report triggering and timing information to provide several examples. MDT activation types include, for example, Record Only MDT, Immediate MDT, Immediate MDT, and Tracing.

[0029] A method is proposed to collect L1 measurements at the user equipment (UE) and transmit them to the radio network via radio resource control (RRC) signaling or via media access control (MAC) methods, optionally as measurements recorded due to high data volume.

[0030] Traditional solutions provide signaling-based or management-based configurations directly to the DU, offering solutions to these problems. However, they do not support scenarios where collected L1 measurements need to be consumed or aggregated at the CU, such as for AI / ML model training or performance monitoring purposes (see above). Furthermore, traditional solutions do not support scenarios where multiple entities provide training data, for example, where the DU performs L1 measurement collection and model inference, but where model inference in the DU requires L3 measurements from the CU.

[0031] Furthermore, traditional solutions require UE selection to be performed by the entity receiving the tracking / MDT configuration. However, the entity that aggregates, stores, or processes the collected data may have better information available for selection. For example, the DU may receive the configuration from Operations, Administration, and Maintenance (OAM), while the CU that will process the data may know, for example, the mobility and connection mode of the UE being served, and can use that information for UE selection. Moreover, to obtain consistent UE measurements across different configurations to different network entities / nodes, the same UE should be selected for data collection.

[0032] When each entity independently selects UEs for data collection, disjoint sets of UEs can impair data availability or accountability. For example, training an AI model might require L3 measurements, but the data might be based on L1 measurements. As radio networks become increasingly software and service-enabled, the flexibility to combine different types of data becomes more crucial.

[0033] In the following, the process (method) enables the combination of data collected at different layers (L1, L2, L3) and / or by different units (one or more DU / RU (radio head end), CU (CU-CP or CU-UP)) for each trace or interrelated trace. For example, interrelated traces may include one trace for an L1 measurement and another trace for an L3 measurement. Interrelated traces in the above example can be equivalent to a single trace activation for an NG-RAN with configured L1 and L3 measurements. Interrelated traces may also correspond to a trace session configured via multiple trace activation messages containing the same trace indication or containing different trace indications. A trace indication identifies the trace for which it collects data. It can be used for trace activation, data aggregation, or forwarding data. In some examples, when used to activate an MDT by a management system (managed MDT), a trace indication may consist of a trace reference. In other examples, when a trace indication is used for data aggregation or forwarding data, it may consist of a trace reference and a trace record session reference. Some more detailed examples are below.

[0034] Depending on the implementation, the following methods can be performed by a DU, CU (CU-CP or CU-UP), or any suitable device. Data collection can be performed as a collaboration of one or more DUs and CUs (CU-CP or CU-UP), as a collaboration of a CU-CP and one or more DUs and CU-UPs, or as a collaboration of multiple CUs (such as the CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) of a master node and the CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) of at least one slave node). The unit can also be implemented virtually.

[0035] In 200, a first network unit receives at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit for selecting one or more user equipments for performing the measurement indicated in the at least one measurement configuration. An example of a tracking activation message is a tracking session activation message (adapted in the manner described herein).

[0036] Information used to determine a network unit (which selects one or more user equipments offered in the tracking activation) enables units other than the one receiving the tracking activation to select the UE for data collection. Typically, the core network or management system transmits the tracking activation to the unit (CU, CU-UP, CU-CP, DU) it selects as the most suitable entity to perform data collection. However, the receiving unit may not be aware of conditions affecting the measurement, such as interference, UE mobility, or data packet retransmission rates. Therefore, the tracking activation can guide another unit to perform UE selection. This can depend on the type of data to be collected, the type of service for which the data is collected, the location of the UE for which data is to be collected, etc. As an example, if the measurement is taken at the gNB-DU, and it is a measurement related to lower-layer operations, such as latency, DL packet loss rate, lower-layer throughput related to the RLC layer, the gNB-DU will be in a better position to select the UE. Similarly, if the measurement is taken at the PDCP layer, such as PDCP layer throughput, UL packet loss rate, etc., then the CU-UP (User Plane) may be a better candidate entity for UE selection. One option for the information is its presence or absence: if the information is in the message, then -> instruct another unit to make a selection; if the information does not exist, then the selection is made. The management system or core network can update its selection of units for data collection based on information used by the UE for previous data collection. This information can be provided to the core network as a list of UE IDs, or as a list of tracking references and tracking record session references (TRSRs), or through other identifiers that can temporarily characterize the UE in the RAN.

[0037] Different units can also be used to select the UE for different measurements.

[0038] At least one measurement configuration for data collection may include a configuration for radio measurements and / or a configuration for user plane data delivery-related measurements. Depending on the implementation, radio (interface) measurements, L1 or L2 measurements may be performed by the UE and / or RU / DU. For example, user plane data delivery-related measurements may be measuring the number or ratio of lost packets at L3 layer. Flexibility in the measurement layer provides for the appropriate layer involved in data collection.

[0039] In 202, when the information used to determine the network unit instructs the first network unit to select one or more user equipments, one or more user equipments are selected, measurements are collected for the selected user equipments, and / or information associated with at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication.

[0040] In 204, when the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit should select one or more user equipments, a message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments is transmitted to the other network unit.

[0041] Additionally, information associated with at least one measurement configuration can be transmitted. The information associated with at least one measurement configuration may include at least one tracking indication.

[0042] At least one tracking activation message and / or message requesting the selection of one or more user equipments may also include information for selecting at least one user equipment, wherein this information is associated with the radio interface-related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, service, user equipment state, and / or user equipment buffer state. Some examples are shown individually or in different combinations below.

[0043] • UEs located at the cell edge (e.g., subject to strong DL inter-cell interference).

[0044] • UEs not located at the cell edge.

[0045] • UEs subjected to strong UL interference.

[0046] • UE located in the overlapping area of ​​the SSB beam.

[0047] • Static UE.

[0048] • UEs that meet certain speed criteria (e.g., speeds above a threshold).

[0049] • UE with specific capabilities (e.g., specific radio capabilities).

[0050] • UEs that meet certain criteria regarding the expected duration of RRC connection states (short connection time, long connection time).

[0051] • UEs that have provided radio link failure reports and guidelines for linking to failure types (e.g., coverage hole, T310 expiry, T304 expiry (see TS 38.331)).

[0052] • UE throughput criteria (e.g., high, low).

[0053] • UE packet loss criteria (e.g., high, low), such as at the RLC level or PDCP level.

[0054] • UEs that deliver specific services (e.g., based on 5QI).

[0055] • Report UEs with specific QoE measurements (e.g., reported DL buffer below a threshold).

[0056] • UEs with AI / ML capabilities (e.g., training AI / ML models or running inference on models), or UEs that monitor the performance of AI / ML models and, for example, report poor performance.

[0057] For data delivery, there are several options. The options can be based on pull or push.

[0058] In the push-based option, the tracking activation message includes an instruction to the receiving entity for data collection. The acquired measurement data, along with at least one tracking instruction, is then transmitted to the instructed receiving entity.

[0059] The receiving entity can be a CU-UP, CU-CP (CU stands for Control Plane, UP for User Plane), CU, DU, or any suitable device, collecting data via a top-level server or terminal entity, such as a TCE. As an example, the DU will report the collected measurements to the CU (e.g., using a measurement report message). As another example, the secondary CU will report the collected measurements to the primary CU (e.g., using a measurement report message). As yet another example, both the CU-UP and DU will report the collected measurements to the CU-CP (e.g., using a measurement report message).

[0060] It should be understood that if the configuration for the DU or secondary CU (in the case of multiple connections, where one or more secondary nodes exist), or CU-UP / CU-CP includes a Target Tracking Collection Entity (TCE address), the DU will additionally forward the collected data to the indicated TCE. If the TCE indication is absent, the collected data terminates at the indicated receiving entity in the Radio Access Network (RAN).

[0061] In the pull-based option, in response to receiving a data request, the acquired measurement data is transmitted along with the tracking indication of the entity that transmitted the request.

[0062] Data can be aggregated for a single transmission before it is transmitted. For recorded measurements, records can be indicated by using a record indicator in the trace activation message and / or in at least one measurement configuration (Trace Record Session Reference, TRSR). Trace indicators can be used to indicate the data to be aggregated. Interrelated traces can also be used to indicate the data to be aggregated.

[0063] For example, the CU can configure MDT measurements to the UE and then forward measurement data (e.g., L3 RSRP) to the DU, where the data is aggregated for AI / ML model training or forwarded to the management system for AI / ML model training, including comparisons with L1 RSRP measurements. In another example, the UE can report measurements to the DU via the MAC, and this information may need to be forwarded to the CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) for aggregation with measurements performed by the CU (CU-CP or CU-UP), and then used for, for example, AI / ML model training or other data collection purposes located in the CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) or management system. In some scenarios, even if tracing or MDT is triggered by the core network, the processing of the collected data is intended to be within the radio network.

[0064] Figure 3 An example of signaling related to UE selection performed by a unit different from the unit that received the aforementioned tracking activation is shown.

[0065] Unit 300 (CU (CU-UP, CU-CP), DU, depending on the implementation) has received at least one of the aforementioned tracking activation messages (e.g., 304 from a management entity or from the core network) and notifies another unit 302 responsible for selecting the UE for data collection. Unit 300 then sends a message requesting the selection of one or more user equipments and information associated with at least one measurement configuration, wherein the information associated with at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication. In this example, the message is named UE Selection Request 306. The message also includes information or criteria for UE selection as described above. Unit 302 performs UE selection 308. Unit 302 may notify unit 300 of the UE used in data collection 310. As an example, some options for further action are shown, whereby unit 302 transmits the collected measurement data to unit 300, and then unit 300 aggregates the data it receives from unit 302 and possibly from other units (not shown) along with 314. Unit 300 may use the data or transmit it to another server (not shown) inside or outside the core network or OAM / TCE or OAM system.

[0066] Figure 4Examples of signaling are shown when a tracking activation is received by the unit performing UE selection. In the first described scenario, the management system or entity 400 sends a tracking activation message 402 to DU 404, and DU 404 performs UE selection for data collection 406. In this example, DU 404 may transmit (410) measurement data collected from the selected UE to CU 408. In the second described scenario, the management system or entity 400 sends a tracking activation message 412 to CU 408, and CU 408 performs UE selection for data collection 414. CU 408 may transmit measurement data to another CU (not shown) for data aggregation, or it may perform data aggregation (416) itself. After aggregation, CU 408 may forward the data to the core network, OAM, tracking collection entity, or tracking report consumer (not shown).

[0067] Figure 5 Examples of signaling are shown when a unit that does not perform UE selection receives a data collection tracking activation message. In the first case, the management system or entity 500 sends a tracking activation message 502 to DU 504, which then sends a UE selection request 506 to a CU (CU-UP, user plane), such as CU 508, which makes a selection 510 and sends (512) information about the selected UE to DU 504, which performs data collection (not shown). DU 504 may also perform data aggregation or send data to CU 508 for aggregation (option 514). In the second scenario, the management system or entity 500 sends a tracking activation message 516 to CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) 508, which then sends a UE selection request 520 to another CU (e.g., CU-UP or CU-CP, control plane) 518. This other CU 518 makes a selection 522 and sends information about the selected UE to CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) 508 (524). This CU 508 performs data collection (not shown) and may perform data aggregation 526.

[0068] As described above, tracking activation can include configurations (and tracking IDs) for different types of measurements. For example, L1 and L2 measurements point to a DU, and L3 measurements point to a CU (CU-CP or CU-UP). Therefore, UE selection for one type of measurement can be performed by one device (such as a DU for L1 and L2 layers) and another device (such as a CU (CU-CP or CU-UP) for L3 layers) can perform another type of measurement. Data aggregation can be performed by one device (CU, CU-CP, or CU-UP), in which case, if the receiving entity is in a management system, TCE, core network, some top-of-the-line (OTT) server, or data center, data aggregation can include combining both types of data from a message to the receiving entity.

[0069] like Figure 6 As shown, an embodiment provides an apparatus 60 including a control circuitry (CTRL) 62 (such as at least one processor) and at least one memory (MEM) 64. The at least one memory 64 stores instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least one of the processes described above. In the example, at least one memory and computer program code (software) are configured, together with at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to perform any of the processes described above. The memory 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 removable memory. The memory may include a database for storing data.

[0070] In embodiments, device 60 may be a network node or be included in a network node, such as in a gNB / gNB-CU / gNB-DU / CU-CP / CU-UP. As an example, the device may be network node 110 or may be included in network node 110. The device can perform the above-described actions via appendix... Figure 2-5 The described function.

[0071] Regarding the CU-DU (Central Unit-Distributed Unit) split architecture, in some examples, device 60 may be included in a central unit CU / CU-CP / CU-UP operatively coupled (e.g., via a wireless or wired network) to a distributed unit, which may include remote radio headends / nodes. That is, the central unit (e.g., an edge cloud server) and the radio nodes may be independent devices communicating with each other via a radio path or via a wired connection. Alternatively, they may be in the same entity communicating via a wired connection, etc. The edge cloud or edge cloud server may serve multiple radio nodes or a radio access network. As described above, in some other examples, the device may be included in the distributed unit.

[0072] The device may also include a communication interface (TRX) 66, which includes hardware and / or software for establishing a communication connection according to one or more communication protocols. For example, the TRX may provide the device with the ability to communicate with at least one user equipment.

[0073] The device may also include a user interface 68, which may include, for example, at least one keypad, microphone, touch display, display, speaker, etc. The user interface can be used to control user operation of the device.

[0074] As an example, an apparatus for performing at least some of the embodiments and / or processes described above includes at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory including computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to perform the described contents. According to one aspect, when the at least one processor executes the computer program code, the computer program code causes the apparatus to perform a function.

[0075] As another example, the device may include circuitry. When activated, the circuitry causes the device to perform at least some of the functions described above. As an example, control circuitry 62 may include circuitry 620 for determining a network unit that selects a UE for data collection.

[0076] As used herein, the term "circuit" refers to all of the following: (a) hardware circuit implementations only, such as implementations in analog and / or digital circuits only; and (b) combinations of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (where applicable): (i) combinations of (multiple) processors or (ii) portions of (multiple) processors / software, including (multiple) digital signal processors, software, and (multiple) memories working together to enable the device to perform various functions; and (c) circuits, such as (multiple) microprocessors or portions of (multiple) microprocessors, which require software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of "circuit" applies to all uses of the term in this application. As another example, as used herein, the term "circuit" will also cover implementations of processors (or multiple processors) or portions of processors and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, and if applicable to a particular element, the term "circuit" will also cover baseband integrated circuits or application processor integrated circuits for use in mobile phones or servers, cellular network devices, or other network devices.

[0077] As another example, an apparatus may include components for performing at least some of the processes described in the process. For example, the apparatus may include components (66) for receiving at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit for selecting one or more user equipments for performing measurements indicated in the measurement configuration; components (66) for transmitting information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication; selecting one or more user equipments when the information for determining the network unit indicates that a first network unit selects one or more user equipments; and transmitting a message requesting the selection of one or more user equipments and information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to another network unit when the information for determining the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects one or more user equipments, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication. As an example, the received tracking activation message can be processed by control circuit 62 and / or circuit 620 using memory 64 for detecting information indicating the unit to perform UE selection.

[0078] Some example components used in the execution process may include at least one of the following: detector, processor (including dual-core and multi-core processors), digital signal processor, controller, receiver, transmitter, encoder, decoder, memory, RAM, ROM, software, firmware, display, user interface, display circuit, user interface circuit, user interface software, display software, circuit, antenna, antenna circuit, and circuit.

[0079] As used herein, the term “non-transient” refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signaling), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0080] As used herein, the term "component" should be interpreted in the singular (i.e., referring to a single element) or the plural (i.e., referring to a combination of single elements). Therefore, the term "component for [performing A, B, C]" should be interpreted to cover means in which only one component exists for performing A, B, and C, or in which separate components exist for performing A, B, and C, or in which partially or completely overlapping components exist for performing A, B, and C. Furthermore, the terms "component for performing A," "component for performing B," and "component for performing C" should be interpreted to cover means in which only one component exists for performing A, B, and C, or in which separate components exist for performing A, B, and C, or in which partially or completely overlapping components exist for performing A, B, and C.

[0081] The techniques and methods described herein can be implemented by various means. 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 embodiments, the means(s) of the 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), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, or combinations thereof. For firmware or software, implementations can be performed by modules of at least one chipset (e.g., processes, functions, etc.) 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 or outside the processor. In the latter case, as is known in the art, it can be communicatively coupled to the processor via various means. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, the components of the systems described herein can be rearranged and / or supplemented by additional components to facilitate the achievement of various aspects described herein, and are not limited to the precise configuration illustrated in the given figures.

[0082] The described embodiments and / or examples can also be performed as a computer process defined by a computer program or parts thereof. Embodiments of the described methods can be performed by executing at least a portion of a computer program including corresponding instructions. The computer program can be in source code form, object code form, or some intermediate form, and it can be stored in some kind of carrier, which can be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. For example, the computer program can be stored on a computer or processor-readable computer program distribution medium. The computer program medium can be, for example, but not limited to, recording media, computer memory, read-only memory, electrical carrier signals, telecommunication signals, and software distribution packets. The computer program medium can be a non-transitory medium. The coding of the software used to perform the illustrated and described embodiments is entirely within the scope of those skilled in the art.

[0083] In the following text, some aspects of the above description are listed: According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: At least one processor; and At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the device to at least: The first network unit receives at least one tracking activation message for data collection, including: The network unit is configured for at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking instruction, and information for determining a network unit, which is used to select one or more user equipments, and the one or more user equipments are used to perform the measurement indicated in the measurement configuration. When the information used to determine a network unit instructs the first network unit to select one or more user equipments... Select one or more user equipments, and transmit information associated with at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication; and / or When the information used to determine a network unit instructs another network unit, besides the first network unit, to select one or more user equipments... Transmit a message to another network unit requesting the selection of one or more user equipments.

[0084] According to the second aspect, an apparatus according to the first aspect is provided, wherein at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to a receiving entity for data collection, and the apparatus further causes to: transmit measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration, together with at least one tracking indication, to the indicated receiving entity.

[0085] According to a third aspect, an apparatus according to any one of the foregoing aspects is provided, further comprising a means for making: In response to receiving a data request, measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration is transmitted, along with at least one tracking indication.

[0086] According to the fourth aspect, an apparatus as described in the second or third aspect is provided, wherein the transmission further includes an identifier of at least one user equipment.

[0087] According to the fifth aspect, an apparatus according to the first, second, or third aspect is provided, wherein at least one tracking activation message and / or message requesting selection of one or more user equipments further includes information for selecting at least one user equipment, wherein the information is associated with radio interface-related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, services, user equipment state, and / or user equipment buffer state.

[0088] According to a sixth aspect, an apparatus according to a first or second aspect is provided, further comprising: causing the apparatus to aggregate measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration prior to transmission.

[0089] According to the seventh aspect, an apparatus according to any one of the preceding aspects is provided, wherein at least one measurement configuration for data collection further includes a configuration for radio measurements and / or a configuration for user plane data delivery-related measurements.

[0090] According to the eighth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: receiving, by a first network unit, at least one tracking activation message for data collection, including: The network unit is configured for at least one measurement configuration for data collection, at least one tracking instruction, and information for determining a network unit, which is used to select one or more user equipments, and the one or more user equipments are used to perform the measurement indicated in the measurement configuration. When the information used to determine a network unit instructs the first network unit to select one or more user equipments... Select one or more user equipments, and transmit information associated with at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication; and / or When the information used to determine a network unit instructs another network unit, besides the first network unit, to select one or more user equipments... Transmit a message to another network unit requesting the selection of one or more user equipments.

[0091] According to the ninth aspect, the method according to the eighth aspect is provided, wherein at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication for a receiving entity for data collection, and further enables the apparatus to: The measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration, along with at least one tracking indication, is transmitted to the indicated receiving entity.

[0092] According to the tenth aspect, the method according to the eighth aspect is provided, further comprising: In response to receiving a data request, Transmit measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration, along with at least one tracking indication.

[0093] According to the eleventh aspect, the method described in the ninth or tenth aspect is provided, wherein the transmission further includes the identifier of at least one user equipment.

[0094] According to the twelfth aspect, the method according to the eighth, ninth, or tenth aspect is provided, wherein the selection of at least one tracking activation message and / or request message for one or more user equipments further includes information for selecting at least one user equipment, wherein the information is associated with radio interface-related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, services, user equipment state, and / or user equipment buffer state.

[0095] According to the thirteenth aspect, the method according to the eighth or ninth aspect is provided, further comprising: prior to transmission, aggregating measurement data acquired in association with at least one measurement configuration.

[0096] According to the fourteenth aspect, a method according to any one of the eighth to thirteenth aspects is provided, wherein at least one measurement configuration for data collection further includes a configuration for radio measurements and / or a configuration for user plane data delivery-related measurements.

[0097] According to the fifteenth aspect, an apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is provided, which, when information for determining a network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects one or more user equipments, transmits information associated with at least one measurement configuration to another network unit, wherein the information associated with at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication.

[0098] According to the sixteenth aspect, a method according to any one of the eighth to fourteenth aspects is provided, wherein when information for determining a network unit indicates that another network unit other than a first network unit selects one or more user equipments, information associated with at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to another network unit, wherein the information associated with at least one measurement configuration includes at least one tracking indication.

[0099] According to a seventeenth aspect, an apparatus is provided comprising units for performing the method according to any one of aspects eight through fourteen and / or sixteen. Although the invention has been described above with reference to examples in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the invention is not limited thereto, but can be modified in several ways within the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, all words and expressions should be interpreted broadly, and they are intended to illustrate rather than limit the embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways as technology advances. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the described embodiments can, but are not required to, be combined with other embodiments in various ways.

[0100] Furthermore, the various implementations of this disclosure can be described with reference to the following terms, and their features can be combined in any reasonable manner.

[0101] Clause 1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive, by a first network unit, at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for the data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit, the network unit for selecting one or more user devices, the one or more user devices for performing a measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; and when the information for determining the network unit indicates that the first network unit selects the one or more user devices, select the one or more user devices, transmit information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the selected one or more user devices and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication; and when the information for determining the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user devices, transmit a message requesting the selection of the one or more user devices to the other network unit.

[0102] Clause 2. The apparatus according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to a receiving entity for the data collection, and also causes the apparatus to: transmit measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, to the indicated receiving entity.

[0103] Clause 3. The apparatus according to Clause 1 further includes causing the apparatus to: in response to receiving a data request, transmit measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication.

[0104] Clause 4. The apparatus according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to the receiving entity for the data collection, and further causes the apparatus to: transmit measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, to the indicated receiving entity, wherein the transmission further includes an identifier of the at least one user equipment.

[0105] Clause 5. The apparatus according to Clause 1 further includes causing the apparatus to: in response to receiving a data request, transmit measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, wherein the transmission further includes an identifier of the at least one user equipment.

[0106] Clause 6. The apparatus according to Clause 1, wherein at least one of the following messages further includes information for selecting the at least one user equipment: the at least one tracking activation message, and the message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments, wherein the information is associated with at least one of the following: radio interface related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, service, user equipment state, and / or user equipment buffer state.

[0107] Clause 7. The apparatus according to Clause 1 further includes: causing the apparatus to aggregate the measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration prior to transmission.

[0108] Clause 8. The apparatus according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one measurement configuration for the data collection further includes a configuration for at least one of: radio measurements and user plane data delivery related measurements.

[0109] Clause 9. The apparatus according to Clause 1 further comprises: transmitting information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the other network unit when the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user equipment, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication.

[0110] Clause 10. A method comprising: receiving, by a first network unit, at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for the data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining a network unit, the network unit for selecting one or more user devices, the one or more user devices for performing a measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; and when the information for determining the network unit indicates that the first network unit selects the one or more user devices, selecting the one or more user devices, transmitting to the selected one or more user devices and / or to at least one second network unit information associated with the at least one measurement configuration, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication; and when the information for determining the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user devices, transmitting to the other network unit a message requesting the selection of the one or more user devices.

[0111] Clause 11. The method according to Clause 10, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to a receiving entity for the data collection, the method further including: transmitting measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, to the indicated receiving entity.

[0112] Clause 12. The method according to Clause 10 further includes: in response to receiving a data request, transmitting measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication.

[0113] Clause 13. The method according to Clause 10, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to the receiving entity for the data collection, the method further including: transmitting measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, to the indicated receiving entity, wherein the transmission further includes an identifier of the at least one user equipment.

[0114] Clause 14. The method according to Clause 10 further comprises: in response to receiving a data request, transmitting measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, together with the at least one tracking indication, wherein the transmission further comprises an identifier of the at least one user equipment.

[0115] Clause 15. The method according to Clause 10, wherein at least one of the following messages further includes information for selecting the at least one user equipment: the selection of the tracking activation message and the message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments, wherein the information is associated with at least one of the following: radio interface related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, services, user equipment state, and user equipment buffer state.

[0116] Clause 16. The method according to Clause 10 further comprises: prior to transmission, aggregating the measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration.

[0117] Clause 17. The method according to Clause 10, wherein the at least one measurement configuration for the data collection further includes a configuration for at least one of: radio measurements and user plane data delivery related measurements.

[0118] Clause 18. The method according to Clause 10 further comprises: when the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user equipment, transmitting information associated with the at least one measurement configuration to the other network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication.

Claims

1. A device for communication, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: The first network unit receives at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for the data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining the network unit, the network unit being configured to select one or more user equipments, the one or more user equipments being configured to perform the measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; as well as When the information used to determine the network unit instructs the first network unit to select the one or more user equipments, the one or more user equipments are selected, and information associated with the at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication; When the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user equipments, a message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments is transmitted to the other network unit.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to the receiving entity of the data collection, and further causes the apparatus to: The measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, along with the at least one tracking indication, is transmitted to the indicated receiving entity.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising causing the apparatus to: In response to receiving a data request, Transmit measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, along with the at least one tracking indication.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one tracking activation message further includes an indication to the receiving entity for the data collection, and further causes the apparatus to: The measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to the indicated receiving entity, along with the at least one tracking indication, wherein the transmission also includes the identifier of the at least one user equipment.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising causing the apparatus to: In response to receiving a data request, The transmission includes measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration, along with the at least one tracking indication, wherein the transmission also includes the identifier of the at least one user equipment.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the following messages further includes information for selecting the at least one user equipment: the at least one tracking activation message, and the message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments, wherein the information is associated with at least one of the following: radio interface-related environment, user equipment capabilities, user equipment mobility, service, user equipment state, and / or user equipment buffer state.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The device aggregates the measurement data acquired in association with the at least one measurement configuration before transmission.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one measurement configuration for the data collection further includes a configuration for at least one of: radio measurements and user plane data delivery related measurements.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: When the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user equipment, information associated with the at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to the other network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication.

10. A method for communication, comprising: The first network unit receives at least one tracking activation message for data collection, the at least one tracking activation message including at least one measurement configuration for the data collection, at least one tracking indication, and information for determining the network unit, the network unit being configured to select one or more user equipments, the one or more user equipments being configured to perform the measurement indicated in the measurement configuration; as well as When the information used to determine the network unit instructs the first network unit to select the one or more user equipments, the one or more user equipments are selected, and information associated with the at least one measurement configuration is transmitted to the selected one or more user equipments and / or to at least one second network unit, wherein the information associated with the at least one measurement configuration includes the at least one tracking indication; When the information used to determine the network unit indicates that another network unit other than the first network unit selects the one or more user equipments, a message requesting the selection of the one or more user equipments is transmitted to the other network unit.

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